Overview NS Co-operative Hospital, Kollam , has been awarded the Cooperative Global Excellence Award by the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) , the global body for cooperative movements. This recognition marks a significant achievement for the cooperative sector in India. Key Developments First in India: N.S. Hospital is the first cooperative society in India to receive this global excellence award. Selection: The hospital was selected from 57 nominations from 51 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Award Announcement: The award was announced at the 17th General Assembly , which concluded on Friday, November 28, 2025 , in Colombo, Sri Lanka . Global First: This is the first time worldwide that the Global Excellence Award has been presented to a hospital cooperative. Recognition Criteria The award recognized the hospital’s superior performance across several key criteria: Successful completion of innovative projects Strong and sustainable growth Financial security Effective social service programmes Promotion of economic empowerment Unique contributions to the cooperative movement Fulfilment of environmental responsibility Assurance of increased employment opportunities Hospital Growth and Services Establishment: The hospital began in 2006 with only 60 beds and 8 departments . Current Status: It has grown into the largest cooperative hospital in the country with 500 beds and 39 departments . Patient Reach: The facility serves over seven lakh patients annually. Technology Integration: The hospital integrates cutting-edge, low-cost technologies, including robotic surgery, an artificial intelligence-equipped cath lab, ART lab, bike ambulance and paperless documentation. Employment: Currently, the hospital is the third largest employer in the State’s cooperative sector. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under GS2: Social Justice and GS3: Economy . It highlights the role of cooperative societies in providing essential services like healthcare and promoting economic empowerment. The hospital's innovative use of technology also aligns with GS3: Science and Technology . Key People Hospital President: P. Rajendran accepted the award. ICA Global President: Ariel Guarco presented the award. Asia-Pacific Regional President: Chandrapal Singh also presented the award.