Sonada, 03 September 2026: The Salesians, faculty members, office and support staff of Salesian college, Sonada gathered around Mr. Robert Lepcha on 03 September 2026, its first librarian and office staff, to bid farewell to him after an unmatchable service of 36 years.  The day’s programme was coupled with expressions of appreciation for the teaching faculty as the nation keeps teacher’s day on the 5th of September. 

Mr. Robert, a native of Molot, Darjeeling Hills, joined Salesian college on 15th March, 1990 as the first lay person to work as librarian of the philosophate and graduate studies, and made Gorabari his home.  Soon he began to take up office work and eventually became a full pledged office staff. His administrative expertise made him an indispensable member of several key institutional bodies. He was appointed to the NAAC First Cycle Preparation Committee in 2003 and later contributed significantly as a member of the Finance Committee, the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), and the College Autonomy Preparation Group from 2020 onwards. 

The college and the philosophate expressed its gratitude to Mr. Robert with a farewell dinner with the entire faculty and staff, followed by a stage performance consisting of dances, songs, video presentations and messages from numerous beneficiaries of his service. 

The Rector, Fr. Johny Nedungatt voiced the sentiments of the college community when he said, “Ever since day one, you were truly faithful to your assigned duties,  attended to whatever was needed to be done, ensured that the office was maintained beyond requirement, and built up familial relationship, as if this institute was your home. … You may leave the college, but the college will not leave you.” 

“We remember your willingness to work, we remember your sense of responsibility, we remember your perseverance and above all, we remember your loyalty to the Salesian College”, were the words of the Principal, Fr. (Dr.) Babu Joseph who was present throughout the entire programme.  This was complemented by the vice-principal, Dr. Terence Mukhia when he said,  “His industrious work ethic complemented by a remarkably humble, simple, and approachable demeanour made him an invaluable pillar of Salesian academic family”.

Mr. Robert was more than an employee. He considered Salesian college his home away from home.  This was manifested in the words of his colleague, Mr. Savio Giri, “Your knowledge of the office requirements, your guidance to the staff students and your willingness to take responsibility have been truly valuable to this institution”. 

“Throughout these thirty-six years, Sir Robert has anchored our administrative core with quiet dignity, selfless dedication, and an abiding fatherly care that treated every colleague and student as family. Today, we stand united in deep respect and gratitude to celebrate a lifetime of exemplary devotion to Salesian College,” were the sentiments of the faculty.

The president of the student council who planned meticulously the day’s programme spoke of Mr. Robert as “A symbol of dedication and untiring discipline”. 

The concluding words of  Mr. Robert, “As Salesian employees we have duties and responsibilities to assist and support the institution and if need be, by giving extra time to complete the assigned work… I think we should have the attitude of  my college is my family” spoke for itself who he was in the life of Salesian College. 

SCS Reporter

RASUWA, NEPAL, 30 August 2026: The Nepal Don Bosco Society (NDBS) emergency response team was forced to suspend its field mission to Timure in Rasuwa on 30 August after rising river levels and severe damage to the transport corridor made onward travel unsafe. The team reached Bidur Municipality in Nuwakot but could not proceed towards Timure and Rasuwa. Following the disruption, the team temporarily halted its movement and returned to Thecho.

The mission was undertaken to establish contact with local authorities and communities and prepare for an immediate humanitarian response in the affected areas. The team planned to coordinate with local authorities and humanitarian structures, secure necessary approvals, conduct a rapid needs assessment, verify vulnerable households and identify priority requirements related to food, drinking water, shelter and essential services.

The renewed flooding has also affected the movement of relief supplies. A significant quantity of humanitarian provisions mobilised by various organisations has reached Bidur Municipality but remains unable to move by road to the most severely affected areas. Field information received by NDBS indicates that the Nepal Army has taken responsibility for coordinating the movement of essential relief materials to inaccessible locations, including through helicopter operations where road access is unavailable.

The situation continues to present major access challenges for humanitarian agencies seeking to reach affected communities. The Nepal Army has been conducting helicopter-supported rescue and relief operations in Rasuwa and surrounding areas, while renewed rises in the Bhotekoshi River have further disrupted access and prompted continuing warnings for downstream communities.

Howrah, 27 August 2026: Don Bosco Technical School, Liluah, Howrah, welcomed the new academic session 2026–2027 with an inspiring Investiture Ceremony cum Freshers’ Welcome on 27 August 2026. The programme brought together the newly admitted first-year students, their parents, faculty members and the school community in an atmosphere of enthusiasm and hope.

The occasion was graced by Rev. Fr. Anil Toppo SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Bandel, as the Chief Guest, accompanied by Rev. Fr. Sanjay Manohar Kujur SDB, Rector of Don Bosco School, Liluah, and Rev. Fr. Banti Mondal SDB, Principal of Don Bosco Technical School, Liluah.

The Investiture Ceremony marked the formal entrustment of leadership and responsibility to the newly appointed student leaders. They were encouraged to lead with discipline, integrity, teamwork and a spirit of service, understanding that “true leadership is not merely about holding a position but about serving others and contributing positively” to the school community.

The Freshers’ Welcome warmly introduced the new first-year students into the Don Bosco family. The presence and participation of their parents added special significance to the occasion, reflecting the strong partnership between the institution and families in nurturing the students’ education, character and future aspirations.

The programme concluded on a joyful and hopeful note, leaving the new students with a strong sense of belonging and purpose. The occasion marked not just the beginning of a new academic year, but also a renewed commitment to learning, leadership, discipline, excellence and service in the spirit of Don Bosco.

Kolkata, 30 August: Auxilium Parish, Kolkata, and its three chapels at Motijhil, Dhapa and Hatgachia celebrated the Feast of St. Monica on Sunday, 30 August, with special focus on mothers. Mothers took an active part in the Holy Masses at all four locations by proclaiming the Scripture readings and intentions and presenting the offerings at the altar. Following the Eucharistic celebrations, the mothers gathered near the altar to receive a special blessing from the celebrants and the assembly, with prayers for their strength, guidance and well-being.

The celebration highlighted the life of St. Monica and her perseverance in prayer for her family. The parish community joined the mothers in thanksgiving and prayer, seeking St. Monica’s intercession for mothers and their families. The observance concluded with prayers for the continued faith, well-being and strength of mothers in their family and Christian vocation.

JALPAIGURI, 30 August: More than 1,500 mothers gathered at Don Bosco Parish, Oodlabari, Jalpaiguri, on 30 August to celebrate the Feast of St. Monica. The celebration marked the culmination of a month-long spiritual preparation organised and coordinated by the parish Mother’s Association (Mahila Sangh), which included daily prayers, a Bible quiz and a novena dedicated to St. Monica.

The solemn Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Sunit Kishor Kiro, Assistant Parish Priest, and concelebrated by Fr. (Dr.) Aju Kurian, Rector. Members of the Mahila Sangh prepared and conducted the liturgy. In his homily, Fr. Sunit highlighted St. Monica’s perseverance in prayer, selfless love for God and steadfast trust in divine providence.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, MSMHC candidates and mothers from various parish sub-centres presented a cultural programme. The day-long celebration concluded with a fellowship lunch shared by the participating mothers and the faithful.

Howrah, 30 August: Around 150 young parishioners gathered at Don Bosco Liluah to celebrate Parish Youth Day with vibrant energy and devotion.

The memorable day commenced with a prayerful entrance dance and hymn, leading the concelebrants and the main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, Provincial (INC), to the altar for the solemn Eucharistic celebration. In his inspiring homily, Fr. Provincial exhorted the youth never to lose heart during difficult and challenging times, reminding them that God walks faithfully by their side.

Following the Holy Mass, the youth assembled in the auditorium for the formal inauguration and an engaging session on the encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas.” Led by Fr. Arvind Khalkho, the session came alive through dynamic interactions and thought-provoking discussions. Fr. Arvind urged the gathering, “Do not allow technology to define who you are; instead, remain truly human—grounded in truth, love, freedom, authentic relationships, responsibility, and compassion.”

After a fellowship lunch, Sr. Nootan Rose CHF, Sr. Thresiamma AASC, and Bro. Roshan Ekka SDB shared touching insights into their religious journeys, encouraging the youth to listen to God’s call and generously respond to a life of service.

The afternoon transitioned into the vibrant talent showcase, “Beyond the Ordinary: 2 Minutes to Fame,” featuring high-energy solo and group performances. Bro. Roshan Ekka then energized the participants further with an action-packed, Gospel-based outdoor Treasure Hunt.

The day concluded in the auditorium with the prize distribution and a vote of thanks:

Solo Category (2 Minutes to Fame): George Mondal (1st place), Anisha Bar (2nd place), and Eva Minj (3rd place).

Group Category (2 Minutes to Fame): Annie Sneha Surin & Group – Liluah Unit (1st place), Chandmari Unit (2nd place), and DB Tech Boys (3rd place).

The celebration stood as a true testament to faith, friendship, and fellowship. Each participant departed inspired by the overarching call: Belong to God, Believe in Yourself, Serve Others, and Build the Future—Together We Shine for Christ.

Sonada, 30 August 2026 - A mobile based match, ‘Mobile Legends: Bang Bang’ (MLBB) was organized by Gorabari Youth Centre (Salesian College, Sonada)  for the young people interested in mobile gaming.  This game is very popular among young people aged between 15 to 25, particularly in South Asia, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

The mobile based match brought together 13 teams, from neighbouring villages,  each team consisting of five members. Thus, a total of 65 players participated in the competition. Apart from the participants, guests and spectators were also present, bringing the total attendance to nearly 100 young people. A registration fee of around ₹100 per team was collected from the participating teams.

The programme began with a short inauguration ceremony in which Fr. Johny Nedungatt, SDB, Rector of Salesian College, Sonada, addressed the participants. In his message, he emphasized the importance of teamwork and encouraged the players to work and participate together as a team. His message reminded the young participants that the event was not only about winning but also about cooperation and learning to accept ‘losing and failures’ in life. 

The competition was conducted using knockout system, with the participating teams competing against one another in a series of matches. The matches were actively followed by the players, guests and spectators present at the venue. There was a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere throughout the competition as the teams competed for a place in the final. After several rounds of matches, Fusion Prime from Dilaram Youth Centre came out as the victorious team.

At the end of the competition, the winners and runners-up were honoured in the presence of the participants, spectators and Salesians. The winning team was awarded trophy, medals and certificates, while the runners-up received certificates in recognition of their achievement.

After the competition, the captains of both finalist teams were interviewed about their experience. The captain of the runners-up opined, “The matches were fair and enjoyable; although our team lost the final, we had  fun playing throughout the competition.” The winners’ captain appreciated saying, “The matches were organized excellently well and we are happy that there are people who share interest in such games.” Their feedback reflected the positive experience of the participants and the friendly spirit prevalent during the entire event.

The programme concluded round 6.00 pm. Overall, the competition was successfully conducted and provided a meaningful opportunity for young people from many villages to come together, participate in a shared interest, develop teamwork, and enjoy a spirit of healthy competition and friendship.

Br. Lamkupar onglang SDB

Sonada, 18 August 2026- Salesian College (Autonomous), Sonada, organized “Patriotic Vibrations 2026” on 14 August, 2026 as a solemn remembrance of the Partition of Bengal and its tragic consequences, alongside the celebration of the spirit of patriotism, unity, and cultural diversity.

The programme was organized by the Music Club of the college in collaboration with the Restless Minds Club, under the coordination of Ms. Aswini Lama, and others.  The event was anchored by Reegden Lepcha and Shreya Sherpa.

The programme commenced with a welcome address and introduction of the dignitaries, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. The Rector, Johny Nedungatt led the gathering in prayer through Rabindranath Tagore’s celebrated poem “Where the Mind Is Without Fear,”. The prayerful recitation of the poem, while awakening the aspiration, “Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake,” beautifully reflected the central spirit of Patriotic vibrations - freedom, unity, courage, and  hope for a nation bleeding with communal division, religious fundamentalism, political anarchy and a polarized social existence. 

Dr. Terence Mukhia, the vice-principal, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of remembering history and upholding the values of unity and patriotism. The Hon’ble Shri Sonam Lama, MLA, Kurseong, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and addressed the gathering, encouraging students to value their history, heritage, and responsibilities as citizens.

The cultural segment featured theme based skits by various departments and a song presented by the Music Club. These performances provided meaningful and artistic interpretations of historical and social themes.

A major highlight of the programme was the Interdepartmental Dance Competition, featuring teams from different departments. The various dances showcased creativity, cultural diversity, teamwork, and enthusiastic and competitive involvement of the students.

Patriotic Vibrations 2026 successfully brought together historical remembrance and cultural expression through music, drama, and dance. The programme provided students with a meaningful platform to engage with the history of the nation while celebrating the ideals of freedom, unity, diversity, patriotism, and national pride.

Br. Abishek Rai SDB

Kolkata, 16 August: Over 50 members of the Salesian family, friends, and well-wishers gathered at Nitika Don Bosco to bid farewell and offer prayers for Rev. Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, as he prepares to depart for his new mission in Cameroon, Africa. Organized by Vice Provincial Fr. Biji Thomas alongside Fr. Deonis Minj and Provincial House Administrator Br. Roshan Ekka, the thanksgiving program focused on celebrating Fr. Pauria's contributions and seeking blessings for his upcoming international assignment.

The evening commenced with a solemn prayer service led by clerics visiting from Nepal for the Practical Trainees Meet, including Cl. Abhay Dung Dung, Manish Tigga, and Cl. Nicholas Mardi. The spiritual atmosphere was enriched with hymns of gratitude sung by Fr. Deonis, Br. Roshan, and the clerics. During the formal felicitation, Fr. Sunil Kerketta delivered an address on behalf of the Province and the Salesian Family, while Sr. Leelamma Palliparambil, Provincial of the Kolkata FMA, and Sr. Jacinta Bhengra, Vice Provincial of the Kolkata MSMHC, shared words of deep appreciation for his dedicated service.

Addressing the gathering, Fr. Pauria reminisced about the origins of his new journey, sharing how he received the official mandate to go to Africa from Rector Major Rev. Fr. Fabio Attard during the province jubilee in February 2026. The diverse group of attendees, which brought together Salesian Brothers, Salesian Cooperators, and representatives from the Don Bosco Alumni Association, concluded the evening by sharing a fellowship meal and wishing Fr. Pauria great success in Cameroon.

Howrah, 5 August: The new academic year 2026–2028 began with renewed enthusiasm, hope and excitement at Don Bosco Technical School, Liluah on 5th August 2026. The year marks the beginning of a new journey for our 98 of our students enrolled in the two-year ITI Trades of Electrician, Fitter, Machinist and Turner.

To warmly welcome our first-year students and help them feel comfortable, confident and at home in their new environment, a five-day Orientation Programme was organized from 5th to 10th August 2026. The programme was meticulously planned to introduce the students to the institution, its values and its vibrant community, while also providing them with an opportunity to get to know one another and overcome the initial hesitation of beginning a new chapter in their lives.

The orientation sessions were conducted by Fr. Charles Murmu SDB, Mrs. Pragya Saraswat, Mrs. Rebecca Williams, Br. Roshan Ekka SDB, Mr. Neville Reay and Fr. Deonis Minj SDB. Through engaging and meaningful sessions, the students were encouraged to build confidence, develop a positive outlook and understand the importance of discipline, responsibility, teamwork and personal growth.

The sessions created a joyful and welcoming atmosphere. The students participated enthusiastically and expressed their happiness and appreciation for the various activities and interactions. The programme not only helped them become familiar with their new surroundings but also enabled them to feel a sense of belonging to the institution.

The five-day orientation programme concluded on a cheerful note with a movie on Don Bosco, providing the students with a pleasant and memorable experience. It was a fitting conclusion to a week filled with learning, interaction, friendship and new beginnings.

With the orientation successfully completed, the institution stepped into the next phase of the academic year. From 11th August 2026, regular classes commenced for both First-Year and Second-Year students, marking the formal beginning of academic activities for the new session.

As we embark on this new academic journey, we look forward to a year filled with learning, skill development, discipline, growth and meaningful experiences. We extend our very best wishes to all our students of the 2026–2028 batch and hope that their journey with us will be enriching, joyful and truly transformative.

A warm welcome to the new batch — may this new beginning lead to a bright and successful future!

Fr. Banti Mondal SDB