“Suvarna Seva Ratna” Award Conferred on Mohan Kumar and Ravi Katpadi
Mangaluru, Oct 06, 2024: As part of the 50th anniversary celebration of the National Service Scheme (NSS) units of Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) College, Ujire, a special event titled “Suvarna Sammilana – Idu Suvarna Hejjegala Avalokana,” (An Overview of Golden Steps) was held on Oct 5.
Mohan Kumar, owner of Lakshmi Industries and coordinator of the ‘Baduku Kattona Banni’ team, along with Udupi-based social worker Ravi Katpadi, were honored with the “Suvarna Seva Ratna” award.
Mohan Kumar, a Karnataka Rajyotsava awardee from Dakshina Kannada district, shared his experiences of leading the revitalization of Kolambe village. He emphasized the support NSS has provided in his social initiatives. “It is heartening that NSS has always extended a helping hand in our service activities,” he said.
Ravi Katpadi, known for his unique fundraising efforts for underprivileged children by dressing in costumes and painting his body, spoke about his life experiences. “Life doesn’t always go as planned. Growing up in poverty, my education was cut short. But my parents instilled in me the values of hard work and service, without taking shortcuts,” he said. He encouraged students to see service not as a favor, but as a duty to society.
The event was presided over by the college principal, Dr. B. A. Kumar Hegde, who noted, “This Suvarna Sammilana should be an inspiration for future volunteers. NSS is an honest program that combines practical experience with theoretical learning to raise social awareness.”
Two documentaries titled “Kolambe” and “Raita Siri,” showcasing the awardees’ service, were screened during the event.
Other dignitaries present included Dr. Satishchandra S., Secretary of SDM Educational Institutions, Dr. Prathap Lingayya, State NSS Officer, and Dr. Sheshappa, NSS Coordinator of Mangalore University.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar Shetty H., NSS Program Officer, welcomed the guests and delivered the introductory remarks. Program Officer Prof. Deepa R. P. proposed the vote of thanks, while Dr. Naganna D. A., Professor in the Kannada Department, hosted the event.
To mark the occasion, saplings were planted on the college premises.
