Media Release

Mumbai, Jul 21: A well-known NGO Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti (JPPS) presented 'George Fernandes Social Award – 2016' to prominent banker John D’Silva on the occasion of the 87th birthday of the driving force behind the Konkan Railway project, former defence minister, George Fernandes July 2 at Millenium Club, Juhu, Andheri West, here under the presidentship of Padmabhushan Dr B M Hegde.

Former MP and MDMK secretary Vaiko inaugurated the function along with the other dignataries. Speaking about the achievements of George Fernandes, Vaiko called him elder brother and said that the award is presented to a deserving personality. 

One of the chief guests Gajanana Kirtikar MP recollected his political relationship with George Fernandes and said that he defeated strong candidates because of his contribution to society and called him 'Adaraneeya Vyakti'. He also extended his possible support to the samiti.

Former MP Mohan Rawle also recollected the political relationship with George Fernandes and said that he is the most powerful personality and is equal to 50 MPs in the LS. He disclosed that George Fernandes was supposed to be the PM of our country but due to a few politicians it could not happen.

Other chief guests MLA Amit Satam, Tamil Selvan, L & T MD and CEO K Venkataramanan, corporator Dilip Patel, Aditya Jha and other dignitaries also spoke about the social and political achievements of this great leader.

Receiving the award, former chairman of Abhyudaya Co-operative Bank, John D’Silva said when the taxi drivers were in need of saving money he had thought of starting a bank. He thanked JPPS for the award and for holding this genuine programme. Treasurer Jayant K Shetty presented a brief introduction.

Founder of JPPS Tonse Jaya Krishna A Shetty highlighted the activities of the samiti and requested the support and help of all the dignataries.

President Dharmapala U Devadiga welcomed the dignataries on dais and the gathering. Adv Prakash Shetty introduced the guests. Former president of the samiti, Harishkumar M Shetty and Hiriyadka Mohandas compered the programme. General secretary, Chandrashekar Belchada offered the vote of thanks. Vice presidents and other office bearers and members of the samiti were also present on the occasion.