NCUI President Dr Chandra Pal Singh Yadav was stunned by the news of the passing away of Dr Jaya Arunachalam. Describing her as the colossus of the cooperative movement, Yadav said ” We have lost a source of our inspiration”.
“Nobody can fill the void created by her demise”, said Chandra Pal recounting her contributions in uplifting the poor women by organizing them through the co-op network. She was involved with NCUI for a number of years and we always kept her on our women committee, recalled Chandra Pal.
Her vast experiences accumulated through grassroots activities enriched not only the NCUI but also the entire cooperative movement in the country and the world, said the NCUI President.
Reacting to the news of her demise IFFCO Managing Director Dr U S Awasthi said “We will miss a known figure in the cooperative world. Pray for her soul to rest in peace.”
Amma as she was popularly called, impacted everyone who came in her contact with her by her affable and affectionate nature. And this correspondent was no exception. No wonder the news of her demise evoked condolences from across the world.
Rajen Kumar Chief Editor, SME WORLD writes “Pained and grieved to get the sad news of Dr Mrs Arunachalam’s passing away. It is a personal loss to me as she was a mother figure to me. My relationship dates back to the 80s when I made a film for WWF. I must say that I enjoyed her affection and kindness all these years.
Anita Gupta (DPDHL External Communications) wrote “I was saddened to hear the passing away of Jayaji. She was a role model to women. Independent, energetic, futuristic, empathetic and open- minded. This is how I will remember dear Jayaji.
It was an honor and a privilege to know her, work with her and present her many accomplishments on the world-stage several times. Nandini, my sincere condolences to you. May Jayaji’s soul Rest in Peace!
Meera Gopi Chandran writes “I am shocked and deeply pained to hear this sad news. She was a mentor who generously nurtured so many of us greenhorns and gave us a vision.”
Balakrishnan Rajagopal from MIT writes “I am pained and saddened to hear that Dr. Jaya Arunachalam is no more. She was a pioneering leader of women’s empowerment and one of the most hospitable, warm and sincere people I have known. Her name and reputation will stand for years to come.