[7] The Kottukapally family ties with the township of Pala, Kottayam started in the 18th century, with the family having moved to Pala, Kottayam to start the trading market in pepper under the invitation of the Kartha, a local chieftain equivalent to that of a Duke, of Meenachil.
[10] With this lineage, George Thomas Kottukapally's past, present and future were both inextricably linked such that his political, social and economic vision for Pala, Kottayam led him to be elected as the Chairman, a position equivalent to that of a Mayor, for the Municipality of Pala, Kottayam which he held between 1948 and 1953.
[12] Post George Thomas Kottukapally's demise, the next generation continued with his eldest son Joseph Thomas Kottukapally having stepped into providing leadership to the township of Pala, Kottayam by being the Municipal Chairman of Pala, Kottayam, an elected position which he held onto for 16-years.
[13] George Thomas Kottukapally's contributions as one of Kerala's earliest and leading philanthropist, educationalist and a social contributor was highlighted by the former President of India A. P. J. Abdul Kalam in his speech while inaugurating the 62nd foundation day celebrations of St. Thomas College, Pala as well as to mark the 111th birth anniversary.
It was largely due to him and his tirelessly advocacy and his intercession with men at the top that the magnificent hydro-electric project in Idukki materialised".
[20] Currently, economic-wise, the township and the region of Pala, Kottayam is ranked as one of the richest and most prosperous Syro-Malabar Saint Thomas Christian belt in the State of Kerala.