Sonada, 06 June 2026 - The Department of Philosophy, in collaboration with IQAC (Internal Quality Assurance Cell), Salesian College Sonada, organized a seminar titled “Addiction and its Dynamics: Path of Awareness to Sobriety”  on the 4th and 5th of June, 2026. The seminar provided the students with an opportunity to learn about addiction, its causes, and effects on individuals and society.

The resource person for the seminar was Fr. Peter Bhujel S.J. who is currently working with the Social Action Ministry for Addicts and Alcoholics, Woodcot, Kurseong. Drawing from his years of practical experience, Fr. Bhujel shared valuable insights and engaged the participants in meaningful discussions throughout the programme.

The first day began with a session about alcoholism and the importance of discussing addiction openly. Using examples from his personal experience in the field, he explained how people often become involved in addictive habits and the many factors that contribute to such situations. He also highlighted the harmful effects of alcohol addiction and encouraged students to be more aware of its personal and social and consequences. Students were encouraged to ask questions, and many actively participated in the interactive session. Fr. Bhujel responded to the questions with clarity and patience, helping the participants gain a better understanding of the issues being discussed.

On the second day Fr. Bhujel discussed alcohol as one among several addictive substances and stimulants. He introduced different categories of substances such as ethanol, nicotine, and narcotics. He also set aside time to discuss behavioural and psychological addictions and their growing presence in everyday life.  In the group discussion that followed some of the participants shared their observations and reflected on certain addictive patterns that they felt were present in their own lifestyle. Fr. Bhujel appreciated the openness and honesty shown by the students during this sharing session and encouraged them to continue reflecting on these issues.

The programme came to an end on a positive note, leaving the participants with a deeper awareness of addiction and the importance of making informed and responsible choices. Overall, the seminar was both informative and enriching. It offered students a valuable opportunity to learn from the practical life experiences of the resource person, reflect on contemporary forms of addiction, and engage in open discussion on an important social issue.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB

Kolkata, 5 June: Fresh off its centenary celebrations this past February, the Salesian Province of Calcutta has begun an extraordinary visitation to evaluate its mission and chart a course for the next century. The visitation officially opened on June 5, coinciding with the ordination day of St. John Bosco. Fr. Biju Michael, the Regional Superior of the South Asia Region, is leading the province-wide evaluation as the delegate of the Rector Major.

Addressing rectors, parish priests, and confreres during the opening session, Fr. Michael anchored his address around a central, historical question: "Quo Vadis INC?" He challenged the gathering to consider exactly where the province is heading in its next 100 years.

To answer that question, Fr. Michael outlined a four-point scope for the visitation. The process will focus on understanding the current state of the province, evaluating its community life and financial health, connecting directly with young people, and ensuring proper implementation and accompaniment moving forward.

He also laid out the six-year strategic roadmaps for both the global congregation and the South Asia region. Globally, the Salesians will focus on the centrality of Christ, pastoral competence, navigating the challenges of artificial intelligence in education, and supporting the Salesian Pontifical University. Within South Asia, the priorities include renewing fraternal life, prioritizing marginalized youth, establishing joint formation programs with lay collaborators, and accompanying young people through digital environments.

The day's events began with an invocation of the Holy Spirit and a formal welcome from Provincial Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta. Fr. Kerketta described the visitation as a much-needed pause to reflect. He urged the confreres to use this time to listen closely to God, to the people working alongside them, and especially to the young.

To provide a foundational framework for the gathering, Fr. Eugene Kujur, Rector of Don Bosco Bharoul Chakraghatty in Nepal, read Articles 126 and 127 from the Salesian constitution. Fr. Michael then tested the room with an interactive Q&A on the history of the province and the South Asia region before moving into his main presentation.

At noon, the gathering celebrated the inaugural Holy Eucharist. During his homily, Fr. Michael reflected on the Gospel call to perfection. He stressed the importance of personal transformation, urging the confreres to focus on "becoming" rather than simply "doing" or "having." He reminded the Salesians that their charism must be more than just an activity and that they must be fully equipped for good works to let their light shine.

Following the Mass, the attendees gathered for a fellowship lunch before Fr. Michael began his afternoon meetings with the Provincial Council members. He begins his First Visitation on 6 June from North Bengal visiting the first house Don Bosco Samthar, Kalimpong.

KOLKATA: Rev. Fr. Peter Vincent Lourdes, SDB, one of India’s pioneering priest-psychologists and the oldest Salesian in the Kolkata Province, passed away today, May 28, 2026, at the age of 100. Following his lifelong commitment to human welfare, Fr. Lourdes’ body was donated to the Calcutta National Medical College for academic and medical research, fulfilling his final wishes for selfless service.

A solemn Requiem Mass was celebrated at the Nitika Chapel within Nitika Don Bosco, Tangra, where Fr. Lourdes had spent his final years. The liturgy was offered by Fr. Sunil Kerketta, Provincial of the Kolkata Province, drawing religious leaders, Salesian confreres, relatives, and regular citizens to pay their final respects. The service highlighted his profound influence on the psychological and spiritual landscapes of the Catholic Church in India. In accordance with his humble nature, no official obituary messages were read. Instead, the gathered mourners paid tribute through the offering of wreaths, flowers, and flower petals.

Born on March 19, 1926, Fr. Lourdes dedicated 83 years of his life to religious profession and 72 years to the priesthood. He achieved distinction as the first Indian national to serve as Principal of Salesian College, Sonada (1967–1970), and was a founding pillar and former director of the National Vocation Service Centre (NVSC) in Pune.

In his later years, Fr. Lourdes gained widespread public admiration when, at the age of 94, he successfully survived a severe battle with COVID-19 at Fortis Hospital Anandapur. A memorable photograph captured him hoisting the Indian Tricolour on Independence Day 2020 shortly after being taken off oxygen support, a moment hospital officials called a "symbol of hope and clinical excellence."

Church leaders and colleagues emphasized that his final act perfectly mirrored a lifetime spent breaking conventional boundaries to serve the community. Driven by a personal desire to support the advancement of medical science, Fr. Lourdes had voluntarily drafted a will declaring that his body be used for medical studies. Immediately following the chapel services, his body was transferred to the hospital before being handed over to the medical college to fulfill his final wish.

Kolkata, 3 May – Auxilium Parish in Gobra marked a significant milestone on May 3, 2026, by hosting a joint celebration for International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day. The event drew a large gathering of parishioners to recognize the pivotal role of women in both the family and the local church community. By aligning the celebration with the first Sunday of May, the parish combined the spirit of "Give to Gain" with the Mother’s Day theme of "Strength, Love, and Sacrifice," filling a gap left when the March observance was deferred.

The festivities commenced with a solemn Holy Eucharist presided over by Parish Priest Fr. E. J. Anthony. In a display of communal harmony, the liturgy was prepared by the parish’s three linguistic groups, reflecting a unified approach to worship. During his homily, Fr. Anthony drew from the readings of the Fifth Sunday of Easter to speak on the dignity of women, describing them as vital pillars of faith and service.

The program transitioned to the parish hall for a cultural assembly anchored by the Women’s Cell leadership, including President Mrs. Kanchan Osta and Secretary Mrs. Prasina Mondal. A major highlight of the afternoon was the formal recognition of seven "Inspirational Ladies" for their decades of selfless commitment to the parish. The honorees—Sr. Margaret Ghosh FMA, Mrs. Rina Topno, Mrs. Sandhya Gomes, Mrs. Charmaine Bajaj, Mrs. Anna Sarkar, Mrs. Lucy Lin, and Mrs. Bharati Das—provided moving testimonies regarding their service.

Performances by women and young girls followed, tackling contemporary social challenges through song and dance while affirming the progress of womanhood. The event concluded with a creative Religious Fashion Show, where participants portrayed biblical figures and saints to provide a catechetical lesson on holy women in history. The day ended with a fellowship meal, leaving the congregation with a deep sense of joy and communal solidarity.
-Amit & Kanchan Osta

KOLKATA, 25 April – Following the successful momentum of the national Salesian basketball championships held in Hyderabad, the stage is now set for a historic first in the world of Salesian youth sports. The inaugural All India Inter-Province Football Championship Under-17 (2026) is scheduled to take place on April 28 and 29 at the Don Bosco Vaduthala grounds in Kochi, Kerala.

Representing the Salesian Province of Kolkata (INC) is a formidable squad of young athletes known as the Kolkata Tigers. Drawing inspiration from the strength and spirit of the Royal Bengal Tiger, the team has spent their post-Easter break in a rigorous training camp at Don Bosco Azimganj. Under the tactical guidance and leadership of Fr. Bijoy Ghosh, Fr. Teleshphore Bilung, and Fr. Manoj Hasda, the Tigers have focused on refining their technical skills and fostering the discipline required for national-level competition.

The tournament is designed to bring together the finest young talent from Salesian provinces across India. The Kolkata Tigers are prepared to face a competitive field including teams from Shillong, New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad, Trichy, and Dimapur, all of whom have confirmed their participation in this landmark event.

For the Kolkata Tigers, this championship represents the culmination of intense dedication and significant community support. As the squad departs for the coastal city of Kochi, the provincial leadership expressed deep gratitude toward the benefactors whose contributions made the logistics and preparation for this journey possible. The team carries with them the pride of West Bengal, ready to demonstrate the skill and sportsmanship that the Kolkata Province is known for.

The two-day event in Kochi promises to be a high-energy display of athletic excellence, celebrating the Salesian commitment to youth development through the beautiful game. Results and highlights from the championship will be followed closely by supporters back home as the Tigers take to the pitch in Kerala.

Siliguri, 19 April: Salesian College (Autonomous), Siliguri, hosted the first-ever inter-parish youth convention SymphoriX 2026 on April 18–19 under the banner of the Salesian Youth Movement, with the theme “Let Your Light Shine” (Mt 5:16).
The convention brought together 109 students from classes 9 to 12 representing seven tea garden parishes of Bagdogra and Jalpaiguri dioceses, including Bagdogra, Matigara, Jaigaon on the Bhutan border, Sylee near Nagarkata, Oodlabari, Banchkumari in Alipurduar, and New Jalpaiguri.
Jalpaiguri parish won the overall championship trophy, followed by Don Bosco Parish Oodlabari.
The two-day event featured 12 competitions ranging from Group Dance, Band, Biblical Mime, and Tableau to innovative formats such as Visionary (Faith Shark Tank), Reel Making, Quizedom, Treasure Hunt, Face Painting, Rosary Making, and Illuminate (Painting/Drawing). A Pro-Life exhibition, free face painting, and student volunteers cooking meals added to the festive spirit.
Some 50 volunteers facilitated the convention under the leadership of SYM President Ashish Santah, while the entire program was coordinated by Rector Fr. Dr. Tomy Augustine, ensuring smooth organization and pastoral guidance.
On April 18, Bishop Fabian Toppo of Jalpaiguri presided over the Holy Eucharist at Don Bosco Shrine, urging youth to radiate hope, love, and positivity through their talents and leadership.
The inaugural function at Kilian Hall felicitated dignitaries including diocesan youth directors Fr. James Bara (Jalpaiguri) and Fr. Hemant Minj (Bagdogra), as well as Salesian Youth Delegate for South Asia, Fr. Patrick Lepcha. Bishop Paul Simick presided over the concluding Eucharist on April 19.
A distinctive highlight was the Night Olympics held at the college stadium, coordinated by Mr. Liander Ekka with SYM volunteers, six Salesian Brothers, and 15 Sister students.

Fr. CM Paul, SDB

Sonada: 18, April 2026: Salesian College Sonada celebrated a joyful and meaningful occasion, 14- 17, April 2026, marking the Ruby Jubilee of ordination of thirteen Salesian priests from five North and North Eastern provinces.

The jubilarians hailed from the provinces of New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong and Dimapur. A former Salesian of the same batch too joined the celebration.  Due to illness and other unavoidable reasons four could not be present for the jubilee, however they were remembered in different ways. 

The programme was held at Salesian College Sonada under the leadership of Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, the Rector of the college, who took the initiative in bringing the jubilarians together for this special occasion. 

The main celebration took place on 15th April and began with Holy Mass at 10:30 a.m., presided over by Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB. It was a prayerful moment of thanking God for the forty years of faithful service in the vineyard of the Lord.  A short felicitation programme followed the Eucharistic celebration.  The programme included a choir and a dance performance, which added joy to the celebration. Fr. Jose Anikuzhikattil SDB, rector of St. Anthony’s college, Shillong and full time professor at Sacred Heart College, Shillong, shared a message where he spoke about one’s journey towards priesthood, the importance of faith and dedication, and also his personal experiences and joys as a Salesian priest. Fr. Mathew Cherukattuparambil SDB, the vice-rector, spoke on behalf of the community congratulating the jubilarains. 

The time spent together by the jubilarians was spread across three days when they had several sessions of personal sharing of their priestly journey in their group. Some of them had to face physical assault, inhuman treatment from ecclesiastical authorities, and other frustrating experiences.  “Though they were testing moments, being a Salesian priest itself is so fulfilling”, observed one of them. At different moments over these days, all of them had opportunity to speak to the community when they shared about their priesthood, memories, and reflections from their years of priestly ministry. These moments of sharing were deeply enriching, both for the community, particularly for the brothers. 

A fellowship meal was also arranged, giving everyone the opportunity to interact and celebrate together in a spirit of unity and brotherhood.  Time also was set aside to visit Darjeeling to relive the memories of yester years. Before leaving, the jubilarians expressed their sincere gratitude to the community for hosting the event, where most of them returned for the first time after completing their post novitiate formation in 1980. 

Fr. Pritam Barla SDB,  a Salesian staff of the college shared his thoughts about the jubilee,  “In a profound display of faith and fraternal joy, eight priests celebrated their Sacerdotal Ruby Jubilee on 15 April 2026, marking forty years of dedicated service to the Church - a fitting offering of gratitude to the Lord. From the insights shared in homilies and ‘goodnight talks’ to the personal interactions with younger confreres, the atmosphere reflected renewed missionary zeal. Witnessing these priests as a living testament to long-term commitment was both humbling and a strong call to action.”

The Ruby Jubilee celebration ended on a joyful and thankful note, leaving behind many good memories for everyone who took part in it.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB

Sonada, 28 March 2026: Saesian College (autonomous) organized an international Tea Conference at Sonada where Tea Garden Managers, Garden owners, Hoteliers, Financial institution heads, Health workers, NGO workers, academicians, social workers and a whole lot of others associated with Darjeeling Tea met on a single platform on 27-28 March, 2026 to share, discuss,  deliberate and charter innovative paths for a Tea industry struggling to survive.

The conference theme ‘Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, life and legacy’ took a multi-disciplinary approach which examined production of Tea not just as a business but as a living and breathing cultural landscape that continue to shape lives of the people of the hills in untold ways.  The conference intended to approach the Tea community  which includes workers, women, youth and knowledge-keepers as the custodians of the region’s heritage and as the most essential contributors to its future.  

Eighty participants excluding the college students were brought together by the conference, most of whom presented papers or lectures on various aspects the world renowned beverage, Darjeeling Tea.  In his opening address Fr. (Dr.) Babu Joseph, the principal of the college said, “As a college deeply committed to academic excellence and social relevance, we believe it is our duty to provide a platform where stakeholders – planters, traders, policy managers academics and students – can come together to discuss these challenges and chart a way forward.”

The variety of papers and lectures, nearly 45 of them, presented by scholars like Dr. Eklavya Sharma, a Padma Shree Awardee, Strategic Advisor and Senior Fellow, ATREE and Dr. Kathrin Gassert, Director Tea Campaign Germany helped the participants to delve into many an unchartered area connected with Tea plantation and the industry. In his presidential address Mr. Binod Mohan, Chairman of Tea Promoters India, said about Darjeeling Tea, “One single concern is erosion of quality.”  He further stated that this conference could be a turning point to create conditions that make the workers stay back and not to migrate. 

Referring to the academic situation in China where every college has a stream on Tea for students to study, Mr. Shiv Kumar Saria, Managing Director Soongachi Tea Industry invited Salesian college to initiate a course on Tea. 

Speaking about the impact the conference on Tea plantation and the industry, Dr. Eklavya Sharma said, “Salesian college has provided a platform where various persons like researchers, planters, managers, and social workers could come together and share their experience. You also organized a Darjeeling Tea ceremony which many countries have but does not have in Darjeeling.” 

Mr. Jeewan Prakash Gurng, Whole time Director Tea promoters India speaking on the sidelines of the conference said, “I think this seminar literally is the first of its kind which happened in this part of the world, involving all aspects of Tea growing. It is an eye opener for all stake holders in Tea, ... and it should have a good impact on all aspects of Tea. Speaking about the uniqueness of the seminar Mr. Gurung said, “We had seminars before but they were restricted to technical and administrative aspects but this encompasses society, and the psychological aspects of tea.”

“I think it is a perfect starting because I fear Darjeeling Tea industry is in an infectious dire state and it  needs a multi stake holder approach”, shared Ms. Kathrine Gassert.  She further said that the conference provided the opportunity to look at Tea industry from various angles, including literature. 

The chief organizer of the conference was Fr. Tomy Augustine, Rector of Salesian College, Siliguri campus.  Apart from the various faculty members assisting him to get the conference move ahead, there were Mr. Rajah Banerjee, Rimpocha Tea Chairman T’Classic Darjeeling Pvt Ltd and Mr. Jeewan Prakash Gurung who collaborated in umpteen ways, including raising fund for the conference. 

Speaking about the contribution that Salesians have made to the Tea community Br. (Dr.) Jose Puthenpurackel SDB, the vice-principal of Sonada campus in his paper referred to the community engagement programmes of the college.  He said, “Over the decades, Salesian College has supported construction of schools, homes, and roads; implemented food-for-work and disaster relief initiatives and conducted literacy, skill development, and human development programmes.  Health initiatives addressing child nutrition, women’s empowerment, and child rights awareness have further strengthened community well-being”

Presenting a paper on the Jesuit contribution, Fr. (Dr.) K.L. George SJ referred how they were instrumental through their educational institutions to lay foundation for a broader, more inclusive, and equitable development in the lives of people regardless of religious, cultural, or linguistic difference. 

The conference dedicated a paper to Rev. Fr. Luigi Jellci SDB and the impact he had on the Tea Garden workers of Balasun Valley and Mirik. “The advent of Fr. Luigi Jellici brought a phenomenal impact that initiated significant transformation in the lives of the people in the neighbourhood of Sonada, Darjeeling”, said Sushna Subha, Asst. prof. Dept. of history, Kurseong College. 

As the curtain came down on the two-day conference, Fr. Tomy Augustine thanked the Salesian community of Sonada for hosting the conference and extending whole hearted assistance to the organizers and to the participants. 

The brothers under the leadership of Frs. Anjulus Minj, the bursar and Fr. Clement Lakra, the Dean of studies ensured that the guest were extended a very warm welcome., food and accommodation. 

Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB

Sonada, 27 March: Salesian College (Autonomous), Sonada, in collaboration with Tea Promoters India and Rimpocha Tea, launched a two-day international conference on “Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, Life, and Legacy – A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Place, People and Possibility.”
The inaugural session on 27 March featured addresses by Mr. Binod Mohan, President of Tea Promoters India, Chief Guest Mr. Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, Founding Chairman of Bandhan Group, and keynote speaker Mr. Rajah Banerjee of Rimpocha Tea and Chairman of T’Classic Darjeeling.
Over the two days, 34 academic papers are being presented across eight technical sessions. Day one, held in hybrid mode, brought together national and international scholars, industry leaders, and community representatives to deliberate on the cultural, economic, and ecological significance of Darjeeling tea. Afternoon sessions explored themes of environment and sustainability, tea communities, literature, and gender and labour, with 18 papers delivered.
Day two will feature plenary discussions and four parallel sessions covering media and innovation, alternative livelihoods, life in tea gardens, and multidisciplinary perspectives, adding 16 more papers to the tally.
Alongside the academic program, a photographic exhibition on Darjeeling tea, a tea-tasting stall, and publications on tea and the Eastern Himalayas are on display.
Established in 1938 in Gorabari village near Sonada, Salesian College has been a cornerstone of higher education in the Darjeeling hills for nearly nine decades. Having attained autonomous status in 2023, the college marks a historic milestone by hosting its first international tea conference. Since 1963, its students have continued Sunday outreach programs in 24 far-flung tea gardens.
By convening diverse voices to deliberate on the legacy and future of Darjeeling tea, Salesian College reaffirms its role as custodian of regional heritage and catalyst for innovation and sustainability in the tea industry.

Azimganj, 19 March – The INC U-17 Boys Football Team has officially finalized its 18-member roster following an intensive five-day selection camp held at Don Bosco High School, Azimganj. The camp, which ran from March 5 to March 9, 2026, evaluated 33 young prospects through a series of fitness tests, tactical drills, and practice matches to identify the region's top talent.

The final squad features a strong contingent from the host town, complemented by skilled players from Samthar, Krishnanagar, and Katihar. These athletes were selected based on their technical proficiency, teamwork, and physical conditioning during the high-pressure evaluation period.

The team is now entering a concentrated preparation phase before traveling to Kochi for a series of competitive matches scheduled for April 27, 28, and 29, 2026. These upcoming fixtures are designed to provide the players with vital exposure to high-level competition and foster their growth in the sport.

The Official INC U-17 Squad

The following players have been selected to represent the team:

Rimil Kisku – Azimganj

Subham Sarkar – Krishnanagar

Alone Mangar – Samthar

Simon Lepcha – Samthar

Ajit Mardi – Azimganj

Rosen Soren – Azimganj

Rana Hasda – Azimganj

Parosh Murmu – Azimganj

Joseph Murmu – Krishnanagar

Rajib Kisku – Azimganj

Rohit Murmu – Krishnanagar

Anusent Marandi – Azimganj

Patoras Hansda – Azimganj

Dipak Hansda – Katihar

Bijoy Murmu – Azimganj

Tadius Mardi – Azimganj

Sohel Seikh – Krishnanagar

Subhodip Murmu – Krishnanagar