Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (EP)
Mangaluru, Jan 27: Social organization Dosti Kalakar Permai and Dr B R Ambedkar Residential School Gupur, Cutinho Padav, Peramai celebrated Republic Day and felicitated retired soldiers in the morning of January 26.
Former soldier, Wilfred D’Souza along with retired soldiers hoisted the tricolour national flag. The programme began after a welcome dance by the school students. School music teacher, Pavitra Mayya sang a prayer song. School principal, Sumangala S chaired the programme. Pingara newspaper editor and district Chutuku Sahitya Sangha president Raymond D’Cunha, entrepreneur and former president of MCC Bank Francis Cutinho, headmaster of St Thomas Higher Primary School, Bodantila, Melwin Braggs, retired headmistress of the school Lucy D'Souza, vice-president John Moras, secretary of Dosti Kalakar, Thomas Ronald D’Souza Permai were present. Dosti Kalakar founder president Silvester Lobo gave the introductory speech.
Flower tributes were paid to the pictures of the country’s local soldiers, late Lawrence D’Mello, late G Ananda Belchanda and late Cyril D’Souza who died after serving the country. Their families were honoured by presenting a memento.
Five soldiers who retired after serving the country were honoured by Peta, shawl, fruits, flowers and memento. Valerian Aranha who received felicitations on behalf of the felicities was grateful and informed the students about the Indian army and encouraged them to join the defence forces.
Three students of Dr B R Ambedkar School delivered speeches in Kannada, English and Hindi. A poor family was extended monetary help by Dosti Kalakar.
School principal Sumangala S who chaired the programme was felicitated by Dosti Kalakar. The president in his presidential address wished happy Republic Day and praised the programme saying that it will be fruitful among the school children.
Schoolteacher Jayakar Shetty compered the programme. Teacher Anita Kumary welcomed the gathering. Teacher Babita N rendered the vote of thanks.