Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 3: Celebrating the birth centenary of the late Dr Olinda Pereira, a pioneer in education and social service, the Link Anti-Addiction Citizens Committee (R), Bajal, under the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ (Drug-Free India Campaign), hosted a grand memorial sports meet for youth and children at the Holy Spirit Church grounds, Bajal.
The ceremony began at 10.45 am, presided over by Dr Satish Rao, president of the Link Administrative Board.
Among the chief guests were Fr Leo William Lobo, parish priest of Holy Spirit Church, Bajal; Gayathri C H, deputy commissioner, excise department, Mangaluru sub-division; noted social activist Sunil Kumar Bajal; and social worker Hasan.
In recognition of their community service, Sunil Kumar Bajal, Hasan, and Wilfred Monteiro were felicitated.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Rao urged: “Let us dedicate ourselves to building a society free from addiction. A healthy, purposeful life is the best tribute we can offer to Dr Olinda Pereira’s legacy.”
The daylong sports meet saw spirited participation from children, youth and adults alike, reflecting enthusiasm, teamwork and fair play.
Events included volleyball (men/boys), throwball (women), tug-of-war (men/women/children), shot put (men/women), along with several individual athletic contests.
Special honours were presented for best smasher, best passer, best server, best receiver, and best all-rounder in volleyball and throwball. Medals, trophies and certificates were awarded to all winners amid loud cheers.
As part of the campaign, Gayathri C H administered the Drug-Free India pledge, following which guests, citizens, students and youth signed a banner affirming their commitment to an addiction-free community.
“The message is clear,” Gayathri said. “Our collective strength can shape a healthier, more responsible India,” she said.
The signature drive created strong awareness of the need for a balanced lifestyle and social responsibility.
At 7.30 pm, a valedictory function was held with Gajendra, president of Madilu Seva Team; Balachandra, secretary; and Nagaraj of the Swachh Bharat Walkathon Campaign, Bajal, as chief guests.
They were honoured on stage, and medals and certificates were distributed by Fr Joel Monteiro, parish priest of Holy Spirit Church, Bajal; Santosh D’Souza, Link Board Member; and Lydia Lobo, administrator.
The event carried the powerful message: “Participate in sport – embrace health and an addiction-free life.”
The sports meet was conducted with the support of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.
Lydia Lobo delivered the welcome address, Dr Anita D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks, and Dr Bindurani compered the programme.