Mangalore, November 25: Today, India lacks good leadership, national vision, national strategy and national character, said Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) Ian Cardozo, Chairman of Rehabilitation, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.
Speaking at Rachana Awards 2012, an award presentation ceremony hosted by Rachana, a forum of Catholic businessmen, professionals and entrepreneurs, at Milagres Jubilee Hall here on Sunday, he said that for him, the country always came first, and so did its people.
“But I am disturbed, disappointed and disillusioned by commerce industries in India which pollute the environment. Thousands of children are born each day who are mentally-challenged, suffering from cerebral palsy and other mental and physical disabilities, because of consumption of ground water contaminated with pesticides and insecticides. They cannot be stopped because they are powerful organisations. I'm sure Rachana will take a stand against these people,” he said.
Lauding the organisation for its efforts and encouraging individuals to break boundaries and reach the extent in serving the society, he said that Rachana had the ability to make a difference and constitute change.
Five outstanding achievers were bestowed with Rachana Awards on the occasion, for their service and contribution to the society. Prof. Hilda Rayappan, Founder of Prajna Counselling centre, Mangalore, was awarded 'Rachana Outstanding Woman of the year', Florine Pinto from Perne, Bantwal Taluk, was awarded 'Rachana Agriculturist of the year', Dr Oscar G Concessao, an architect from Chennai, was awarded 'Rachana Professional of the year', Walter D'Souza, Chairman of Federation of Indian Export Organisation, Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of India, was awarded 'Rachana Entrepreneur of the year' and Mark Denis D'Souza, entrepreneur from U.A.E., was awarded 'Rachana NRI Entrepreneur of the year'. The awardees were presented with a trophy, along with a citation.
In his presidential address, Dr. Aloysius Paul D'Souza, Bishop of Mangalore, congratulated the awardees and applauded their efforts in improving and empowering the society.
President of Rachana Roy Castelino welcomed the gathering. Stany Alvares, president of Mandd Sobhann, compered the programme.
Mrs Precilla Cardozo, Marcel Monteiro, convenor of Rachana Awards, John Monteiro, secretary of Rachana and Ivan D'Souza, Congress leader, were present on the occasion.
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