CODP enters Golden Jubile year with grants distribution event in Mangaluru
NRI philanthropist Michael D'Souza donates over Rs 1 crore for construction of houses for poor
Mangaluru: The Canara Organization for Development and Peace (CODP) entered its Golden Jubilee year with a grant distribution program for beneficiaries under the house construction and repair program for weaker sections of society.
At the event, 180 beneficiaries were present, and grants were distributed to 100 beneficiaries who have already commenced house construction and repair.
Speaking during the program, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, the Archbishop of Mangalore Diocese, emphasized the equality among individuals, stating, "Donors are not big and receivers are not small. We are all equal because we are God's children." He praised the contributions of Michael D'Souza, a non-resident businessman, who has consistently supported society by donating scholarships for underprivileged children's higher education, building houses, and helping the poor. The Archbishop considered Michael D'Souza as a motivational figure for society.
As the chief guest, senior priest Valerian D'Souza lauded his long association with Michael D'Souza, spanning 45 years. He expressed his belief in the importance of sharing one's blessings with those in need. Valerian D'Souza remarked, "If there were ten people like Michael in our society, we would not have this level of poverty today."
Notably, the non-resident businessman and donor, Michael D'Souza, contributed INR 1 crore 18 lakh for the construction and maintenance of houses for the underprivileged in Dharmakshetra this year. CODP Director, Vincent D'Souza, mentioned that this support will continue in the upcoming years as well.
The program also witnessed the presence of Michael D'Souza's sister, Sylvia, along with Vincent D'Silva, program coordinator Pinto, Oswald Rodriguez, Henry D'Souza, Saint Vincent Paul's Parish President Joe Cuvelho, Austin Perris, Anil Ivan Fernandes, and other dignitaries.
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PM unveils development projects worth over Rs 4,000 crore in Sikkim
Gangtok (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched development projects worth over Rs 4,000 crore in Sikkim while attending the closing ceremony of the state's 50 years of statehood celebrations.
The projects span a wide range of sectors such as infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, power, urban development, environment, tourism and agriculture, the officials said.
These projects are aimed at accelerating holistic and inclusive development in Sikkim.
The PM's visit marks an important milestone in the golden jubilee year of Sikkim's statehood and reflects the government's "continued commitment to the rapid and sustainable development of the Himalayan state", the officials said.
