Karnataka Christian Association felicitates candidates in GP elections.

16.06.10 Udupi : About 200 Christian candidates from the 3 talukas of Udupi district were felicitated in Don Bosco Hall at Udupi on Tuesday evening, 15th June, by members of International Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations. Vincent Alva anchored the Community Programme presided over by Chairman Ronald Colaco of the Federation. Michael Baptista, General Secretary, Denis D’Silva, state Convenor attended the function.

Clifford Chetan recited the Prayer song and Louis Lobo, organizer of IFKCA welcomed the guests from Udupi and Mangalore, who were presented with flower bouquets by Ronald Colaco. They lighted the traditional lamp for the beginning of the joyous event. Colaco made the Keynote address in which he expressed satisfaction that many Christian candidates contested the GP elections recently and some of them were victorious.

Colaco urged the community to send more candidates at the grass root level in proportion to their total number in rural areas. They need to make their presence felt in political life of the country. He wanted a Christian political force in the state.

A hand book on Gram Panchayats and their administration was released by Udupi ZP chair person, Ms Gladys D’Almeida.

J.R. Lobo who manages Pilikula Dhama near Vamanjoor in Mangalore, in his speech stressed upon the need to have good officers and the role of new GP members elected this year. They must have full knowledge of schemes for implementation in various GPs and the grants directly given by the state or Centre. They must be disciplined and maintain good public relations, he said.

Ms. Gladys D’Almeida (Udupi ZP chief) and Ms. Mary Annie, R.Shreshta (Lawyer/Notary) were honoured on the occasion. Dr. R. Johnson proposed a Vote of thanks. Representatives of winners and losers in GP elections also spoke.