Emphasizing that a strong society can only be built through institutions that earn the trust and confidence of the people, the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, stated that the cooperative sector has played a significant role in safeguarding the livelihoods of the people during periods of economic hardship and crisis.
The unveiling ceremony of the statue of the late Kanthaiya Mahathevan, a son of Erlalai West and a co-founder of the Erlalai West Sri Vinayagar United Coin Society, was held on Wednesday afternoon (24 July 2026) at the Society’s premises. Participating as the Chief Guest and addressing the gathering, the Governor made the above remarks.
The Governor further stated:
“During the 1970s, when the country’s economy was severely constrained and faced significant challenges, it was the cooperative sector in the Northern region that helped alleviate the hardships of the people by ensuring the availability of essential goods and services. In particular, the contribution of the late Kanthaiya Mahathevan, who served as President of the Chankanai Cooperative Society, was immense. During my tenure as an Additional District Secretary, I had the opportunity to witness his dedication and commitment firsthand. He established a cooperative model that served as an exemplary system
“If the cooperative sector is to grow and prosper, it is essential to build deep trust and confidence among the people. Once an institution earns the trust of the public, people will naturally be drawn towards it and actively support its activities.
The contributions of individuals such as the late Mahathevan should not merely be remembered and commemorated; they should be carried forward through the actions and commitment of today’s younger generation. The true development of our villages depends on the dedicated efforts of grassroots organizations that work closely with the people and serve their needs,” he said.
The event was attended by the President of the Ezhuchiyagam Organization, Selvakkereesan; Senior Lecturer at the University of Jaffna, Dr. Akilan Kathirkamar; President of the Tamil National Green Movement, P. Aingaranesan; Assistant Commissioner of Cooperative Development, V. Chanthirasekaram; Officer-in-Charge of the Chunnakam Police Station, S. Nitharsan and a large number of local residents.
