Pics: Stanley Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Mar 5: Rachana Catholic Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Sunday March 5 felicitated assistant commissioner of police (ACP) of Mangaluru CCRB Valentine D'Souza and well-known Mumbai-based banker John D'Silva.
Valentine D'Souza was honoured for bagging the President's Medal for Meritorious Service while John D'Silva was felicitated for receiving the annual New Year Award from Manipal University and awards from the Academy of General Education and Syndicate Bank.
An elated Valentine D'Souza in his address to the gathering said, "My dreams of being part of an international body-building championship, getting promoted as deputy superintendent of police (DySP) and bagging the President's Medal before turning 50 years old have been fulfilled. I have been really lucky.
"Rachana has recognised my achievement and this felicitation will inspire me to achieve more. I had to face political interference in my work during my initial days in Udupi. The public and the Christian community lent me good support due to which I could cross all the hurdles in my way. I am thankful to Rachana for felicitating me," he added.
John D'Silva said, "It is a proud moment for me that I have been able to reach this far. I moved to Mumbai in my initial days and that gave me an opportunity to excel. It was quite a different scenario in 2004, but today, many people from the Christian community have progressed due to their hardwork and dedication. We have to change our mindset and should be more of job creators than job seekers."
John D'Silva also stressed on the need for a military school so that more youth get opportunities to join defence academies. He also noted the fact that very less number of people from the Catholic community are joining the armed forces.
Valentine D'Souza and John D'Silva unveiled the Rachana bulletin on the occasion.
Earlier, president of Rachana Gilbert D'Souza welcomed the gathering. Secretary of Rachana, Eulalia compered the programme and proposed the vote of thanks.
Chief whip of Legislative Council Ivan D'Souza, vice-president of Rachana Elias Sanctis and others were present.