Rachana Professional Award 2023–2025 – Mr. John Richard Lobo KAS, Mangalore | Rachana Entrepreneur Award 2023–2025 – Mr. Austin Roach, Bangalore | Rachana NRI Entrepreneur Award 2023–2025 – Mr. Pratap Mendonca, Dubai | Rachana Agriculturist Award 2023–2025 – Dr. Godwin Rodrigues PhD, Belvai, Mangalore

Born to teachers Albert and Cecilia, J.R. Lobo’s academic journey took him from a local church school to a Bachelor of Science from St. Philomena College, Puttur. After completing his B.Ed, he secured a top rank in the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) in 1977, launching a distinguished career in public service that later included a term as MLA from Mangalore South.

During his distinguished 36-year career in the KAS, J.R. Lobo held significant posts including Tahsildar in multiple taluks, Deputy Director of Food & Civil Supplies, and Additional District Magistrate. A notable achievement was his tenure as Commissioner of the Mangalore City Corporation (1999-2003), where he introduced pioneering concrete roads. He was twice honored with the President of India Medal for his exemplary service as a National Census Officer.

As Project Director for an ADB urban initiative, he oversaw major civic upgrades. His defining legacy, however, is creating the 350-acre Pilikula Nisarga Dhama, an integrated science and eco-tourism park, for which he received the Rajyotsava and Karnataka Environmental Awards. Under his visionary leadership, it became a premier center for conservation, education, and sustainable tourism.

After taking voluntary retirement in 2011, he transitioned to politics and was elected MLA for Mangalore South in 2013. In the legislature, he held pivotal roles as Chairman of the House Committee for Backward Classes & Minorities and Vice-Chairman of the Christian Development Council. His profound community involvement includes founding organizations like RACHANA and the “Plastic Hekkiko” movement.

A successful entrepreneur, he founded leading advertising firm CILA and co-founded banking security firm Albertsons International. His current agro-ventures include Cocoa Rich Agri LLP, a top cocoa exporter, and Whitegrove Agri LLP for vertical mushroom farming. He remains active on government development committees and with the Congress party.

Mr. Austin Roach is a distinguished Bangalore-based entrepreneur, real estate developer, and hospitality leader with over three decades of industry experience. He is the founder of Roach Lifescapes (formerly RBD Shelters) and a founding member of prominent ventures like United Builders, Ferns Builders & Developers and St Antony’s Estate. His influence extends to the hospitality sector, where he serves as Managing Director of Charishma Hotels and owns the Radisson Blu hotel on Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road. His commitment to sustainable development is reflected in initiatives such as Clover Greens Golfscapes and his advocacy for greener practices in the hotel industry.

Beyond business, Mr. Roach is an active angel investor with a focus on innovative startups in sectors like Food and Agriculture Tech and Consumer. His notable investments include companies such as FreshWorld and Geist, demonstrating his support for emerging technologies and sustainable ventures. His strategic investments align with his broader vision of fostering growth and innovation within the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Mr. Roach has also played a significant role in industry and community leadership. He served as President of CREDAI Karnataka and was instrumental in unifying Christian associations under the Federation of Christian Associations of Karnataka. His longstanding involvement with the Catholic Club Bangalore, including terms as Vice President and President, highlights his dedication to community service. Additionally, he is a founding member and former Chairman of the Federation of Konkani Catholic Association in Bangalore.

His contributions have been widely recognized through numerous awards, including the Entrepreneur of the Year 2015 from the Federation of Konkani Catholic Association, multiple lifetime achievement awards in hospitality, and accolades for leadership in real estate and golf. A passionate golfer, Mr. Roach is a member of several prestigious clubs and has won various golf tournaments. His philanthropic efforts include major donations to charitable trusts and community initiatives, underscoring his commitment to social responsibility.

Dr Godwin Rodrigues, based in Murkothpalke, Mangalore, is a psychologist, educator, and innovative agropreneur. Transitioning from a successful psychology practice to full-time farming, he has revolutionized his approach by integrating scientific research with agricultural practices. His core philosophy is to identify and mend systemic loopholes in traditional farming, creating sustainable and profitable models that empower the farming community.

Dr Rodrigues pioneered a high-density dragon fruit cultivation system with over 17,000 plants, designed to yield harvest within 14 months and provide income during the traditional off-season (March to November). His model exemplifies integrated farming, combining dragon fruit with seasonal vegetables, pepper, areca nut, mangosteen, and nutmeg. He has established a closed-loop ecosystem that includes paddy cultivation, animal husbandry (goats, cows), and freshwater aquaculture (Katla, Murrells, Pangasius, etc.), where waste is recycled as organic manure.

A true researcher, Dr Rodrigues actively collaborates with government agricultural scientists on experiments concerning pest control, soil health, and manuring techniques. His work extends beyond farming; he is a community leader who generates skilled employment and dedicates himself to social welfare. He teaches daily at two government primary schools, supporting the education of 49 underprivileged children and proactively seeking sponsors for their development.

Continuously evolving, Dr Rodrigues is venturing into new sustainable projects like beekeeping, drumstick cultivation, and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) farming. His journey from psychologist to agropreneur embodies a unique blend of analytical thinking, pedagogical dedication, and a deep commitment to sustainable community development through agriculture.

Pratap Mendonca is a distinguished entrepreneur and visionary leader, best known as the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Design Infinity, a premier interior design and fit-out company in the UAE. Under his strategic leadership since its inception in 2012, the firm has grown exponentially into a powerhouse of over 1,200 professionals, delivering a remarkable portfolio of more than 1,000 projects across the Emirates.

His entrepreneurial acumen extends beyond a single venture. As the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Creative Infinity, Grand Infinity Medical Centre Group, and Vibrant Star Building Construction, Mr. Mendonca has demonstrated exceptional versatility and a consistent commitment to excellence across the design, healthcare, and construction sectors.

An architect by profession, having earned his degree from Karnataka University, India, Pratap Mendonca built a strong foundation through prior roles at renowned organizations like Teknion Furniture Systems, The Total Office, and Dubai Properties Group. His expertise and impact have been formally recognized through accolades such as being named among the Top 10 Successful Entrepreneurs of 2022.
He continues to inspire the industry with his strategic vision, deep passion for design, and an unwavering dedication to operational excellence and quality in every undertaking, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure in the region’s business landscape.

The programme was presided over by Sri. Murali Nair Hosamajalu, President of KNSS. Sri. V.M. Satheesan, Secretary of KNSS, welcomed the distinguished gathering.

The Chief Guest of the function was the renowned multilingual actor Dr. Suman Talwar, who praised the Nair and Keralite community for their invaluable contribution to Indian culture. He also lauded KNSS Mangalore Karayogam for its consistent social and cultural activities, as well as its strong bond with the local community.

The Keynote Address was delivered by Smt. Priyamvada K. Pisharadi, Research Scholar, Spiritual Orator, Motivational Speaker, Anchor, and Social Media Influencer from Kottarakkara, Kerala. In her inspiring address, she spoke about the significance of Hindu traditions, literature, and ethics, and emphasized the need to nurture children from a young age to uphold dharma and cultural values. She also highlighted the importance of the Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, and Mahabharata as guiding lights of Indian heritage.

Distinguished Guests
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including:
• Sri. P.V. Abhilash, Trustee, Mookambika Temple, Kollur
• Sri. N. D. Sathish, Vice Chairman III, KNSS
• Sri. Vinod A. K., CGM, Union Bank, Mangalore
• Sri. Shantharam Shetty, Chairman, Red Cross Society, Mangalore
• Sri. Swaraj Shetty, Director & Actor
• Sri. Sathish Kumpala, President, BJP Dakshina Kannada
• Sri. Ramanath Rai, Former District & In-Charge Minister, Karnataka
• Sri. Ivan D’Souza, Honourable Member, Legislative Council
• Sri. Kishore Kumar Botyady, Honourable Member, Legislative Council
• Sri. Ajith Kumar Rai Malady, President, Bunts Sangha, Mangalore
• Sri. Kiran Jogi, President, Jogi Souhardaka Sangha
• Sri. Ashok T. A., Vice President, Kerala Samajam
• Sri. Rimju, President, Malayali Samajam ®️, Mangalore
• Sri. Sandesh A., President, Karnataka Vishwakarma Samajam ®️, Mangalore
• Sri. Nichla Bose, President, Kairali Kala Vedi ®️, Surathkal
• Sri. K.K. Radhakrishnan, President, Karavali Friends Club ®️, Mangalore
• Sri. Dinesh Mandan, Sree Narayana Samskarika Kala Vedi ®️, Mangalore
• Sri. Krishnan Nair, President, KNSS Karayogam Sullya
• Sri. Mohan Das, President, KNSS Karayogam Udupi

Also present were Mahila Vibhagam Secretary Smt. Lata Diwakar, Treasurer Smt. Jayalakshmi Chandramohan, Board Members Sri. M.V. Rajan and Sri. P.K.S. Pillai, along with several other Committee Members.

Programme Highlights
• Cultural programmes were presented by the members, showcasing the spirit of Onam.
• A special Comedy and Karaoke performance was presented by the Time Jokes Event Troop from Kozhikode, led by Sri. Ajay Kalai, which entertained the audience.
• Felicitation Ceremony:
 Sri. P.V. Abhilash
 Dr. Suman Talwar
 Sri. Krishnan Nair
were felicitated for their notable achievements.
• Miss Diya Bhandary, State-level medal winner in High Jump, was honoured for her sports excellence.
• The team of the recently released Tulu movie “Netterkare” was felicitated by the organisers.
• Achievers from the Nair community were also recognised for their contributions in various fields.
• A traditional and sumptuous Onam Sadya was served, which was one of the highlights of the celebration and was enjoyed by all attendees.
Conclusion
The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Sri. Ravindranath, Treasurer of KNSS, who expressed gratitude to all guests, participants, and members for making the celebration a memorable success.

The entire programme was conducted smoothly under the able compering of Smt. Navya Kurup and Smt. Neetu Lakshmi.

Teachers’ Day celebration was organized at the Belman branch of MCC Bank on 9th September 2025 to pay tribute to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and to honour the dedication and service of teachers in and around the Belman area.

The programme was presided over by Sahakara Ratna Mr Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank. Fr Milton Fernandes, Principal Don Bosco school Mulladka, Mrs Lydwyn Aranha, Retired Teacher, ex-headmistress St Joseph English Medium School Belman and Mrs Gretta Mascarenhas, Headmistress of the Government School, Kurkilabettu were the guest of honour.

In his presidential address, the Chairman of the bank Mr Anil Lobo shared that the Belman branch, though newly established, has already achieved a turnover exceeding ₹6 crore in just six months — a testament to the strong support from the local community. He emphasized the importance of vision in the growth of any organization and acknowledged the increasing challenges faced by teachers today. Encouraging them to continue guiding students with love and dedication, he extended his best wishes to all present.
Fr Milton Fernandes, in his address, lauded the initiative taken by the bank and its staff to honour educators. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition given to teachers and appreciated the efforts put into organizing a meaningful programme.

Ms Lydwin Aranha, another guest speaker, also appreciated the bank’s thoughtful gesture. She highlighted the commendable work done by the staff in bringing together educators from various institutions in the Belman region.

Mrs Lydia Aranha, recipient of the Best Teacher Award 2018–19 and Mrs Gretta Mascarenhas, Headmistress of the Government School, Kurkilabettu were felicitated for their achievement. A total of 60 teachers were honoured in a special ceremony, with the citation read by Ms Shameen Fernandes.
The programme began with a floral tribute to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Mr Andrew Dsouza, Director welcomed the gathering.

The programme started with a prayer conducted by the staff. The programme was compered by staff Mr Rithesh Dsouza, while Branch Manager Ms Shiny Lasrado proposed the vote of thanks.
Directors Mr Elroy K. Crasto, Dr Gerald Pinto, guests, including educators and dignitaries, attended the well-organized event, making it a memorable celebration of the teaching community.

Your Journey Begins with Chavara Overseas, Mangaluru

For many students, Germany has become a land of opportunity. With world-class universities, tuition free education, and strong career prospects, the dream of studying there is growing each day. But behind every dream lies a long journey. Admissions, visas, accommodation, travel, and settling into a new country can be overwhelming.

This is where Chavara Overseas Mangaluru comes forward as a guiding light. More than a consultancy, it is a trusted partner that walks with students at every step of their journey abroad.

Why Germany is the Destination of Choice

World-class education awaits those who step into Germany’s public universities. Students benefit from internationally recognized degrees that open doors across the globe. Beyond academics, the country offers part-time job opportunities, a multicultural society, and even a pathway to permanent residency for those who want to make Germany their home.

For Indian students and their families, this combination of quality, affordability, and opportunity makes Germany a dream worth pursuing.

Support Beyond Expectations

Chavara Overseas provides an all-inclusive package that relieves students and parents of every possible worry. From securing a university offer letter to handling visa procedures, arranging APS certification, booking flight tickets, and ensuring a warm airport pickup in Germany, everything is taken care of.

Accommodation, university enrollment, city registration, and even the opening of a German bank account are smoothly managed. Students also receive guidance for part-time jobs, visa extensions, and long-term goals like permanent residency.

With such detailed care, students are free to focus on what matters most—their education and growth.

Learning the Language of Success

Language is often the first challenge for students in Germany. Recognizing this, Chavara Overseas provides free intensive spoken German classes for Master’s aspirants. The Christ the King German Language Academy offers structured programs from A1 to B2 levels.

Here, students benefit from expert trainers, regular speaking practice, and an interactive atmosphere that builds confidence. The academy is not just about learning words, it is about preparing students for everyday life in Germany.

A Companion for Every Dream

Studying abroad is not only about academics, it is also about emotions. Families invest their hopes, savings, and sacrifices into their children’s futures. Students carry both excitement and fear as they prepare to step into a new world.

At Chavara Overseas, this journey is understood with empathy. Every student is guided with care, and every parent is assured with trust. It is not just about reaching Germany, it is about arriving with confidence, security, and hope.

Germany is Waiting

Chavara Overseas invites students to take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. With complete guidance, personal care, and reliable support, the dream of studying in Germany is no longer distant.

Germany is waiting. Your journey begins here.

Address:
Door No 17-6-362/14(4), First Floor, St. Joseph’s Shanthi Kendra,
Fr. Muller Road, Opposite Fathima Retreat House, Jeppu, Kankanady, Mangaluru

Contact:
+91 90 74 75 70 57 | +91 70 22 79 24 44

Chavara Overseas Pvt. Ltd. – Guiding You Beyond Borders

The Rachana Professional Award 2023 to 2025 | a shining recognition for John Richard Lobo | The Administrator Turned Changemaker | Global TV

The Rachana Professional Award 2023 to 2025 is a shining recognition of John Richard Lobo. His life is defined not by the arrogance of power but by a relentless commitment to public service, sustainable development, and community transformation. A distinguished officer of the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) and later an elected legislator, J R Lobo embodies the rare combination of administrative expertise, visionary leadership, and people first politics.

From Administrator to Changemaker

For more than three decades, J R Lobo served within the corridors of governance, mastering the art of administration as a decorated KAS officer. His tenure was marked by innovation and foresight, earning him the President of India Medal for his role as National Census Officer. Yet, his most defining contribution came when he chose to step beyond bureaucracy. By entering politics, he transformed from an impartial administrator into a grassroots changemaker, carrying his knowledge of the system directly to the people. His election as MLA for Mangalore South in 2013 symbolized this transition and proved that true leadership bridges governance with empathy.

A Vision for a Green and Golden Mangaluru

In a political climate often driven by noise and conspiracies, J R Lobo represents quiet conviction and dedicated services. His philosophy, which he calls Integrated Regional Development, envisions cities and their countrysides growing together in harmony. He refuses to see urban prosperity and rural vitality as competing forces; to him, they are two halves of the same whole.

This philosophy came alive most prominently in his crowning achievement, Pilikula Nisargadhama. Pilikula was once an almost abandoned land, distanced from developments. J R Lobo reimagined Pilikula as a 350 acre eco tourism and knowledge hub. Under his stewardship as Commissioner of the Mangalore City Corporation from 1999 to 2003, Pilikula grew into a symbol of balanced progress:

• The Green Lungs: a biological park, arboretum, and ecosystem preservation for the Western Ghats
• The Golden Opportunity: livelihoods and local tourism that empowered rural families
• The Learning Centre: a science hub, heritage village, and art gallery nurturing knowledge and culture

Pilikula is a living manifesto of Lobo’s vision, development with a soul.

Simplicity as Strength

Despite his towering achievements, J R Lobo remains a man of disarming simplicity. His accessibility is legendary: a leader who could be found sharing tea in local shops, listening more than speaking. Constituents trusted him because his projects carried no shadow of personal gain. His lifestyle, free of egos, gave credibility to his grand visions.

A Life Rooted in Service

Born to teachers Albert and Cecilia Lobo, he grew up with values of knowledge and humility. After his early education and a Bachelor of Science from St. Philomena College, Puttur, he secured top rank in the KAS examination of 1977. His 36 year career spanned roles such as Tahsildar, Deputy Director of Food and Civil Supplies, Additional District Magistrate, and finally, Commissioner of Mangalore City Corporation, where he laid modern concrete roads and championed civic renewal.

After taking VRS in 2011, he carried his passion for service into politics, holding key roles like Chairman of the House Committee for Backward Classes and Minorities and Vice Chairman of the Christian Development Council. His initiatives like the Plastic Hekkiko campaign reflect his practical approach to community betterment.

Beyond Bureaucracy and Politics

J R Lobo’s impact extends into entrepreneurship. He founded CILA Advertising, co founded Albertsons International (a banking security firm), and now leads agro ventures such as Cocoa Rich Agri LLP (a leading cocoa exporter) and Whitegrove Agri LLP (innovative vertical mushroom farming).

The Legacy of Balance

What sets J R Lobo apart is his ability to balance vision with humility, progress with preservation, and governance with accessibility. His life’s work, from transforming Pilikula into a world class model of sustainable growth to building trust as a people’s MLA, underscores a simple truth: leadership is not about power but about service. As Dakshina Kannada looks toward the future, the legacy of J R Lobo endures. It is a green and golden Mangaluru, where dreams are bold and rooted in the everyday lives of its people. J R Lobo is a far better choice to lead the constituency.

bridge the gap between law and society through meaningful engagement with legal aid services; Smt. Zaibunnisa, Senior Civil Judge and Member Secretary, DLSA Dakshina Kannada

Mangaluru, September 4, 2025 — Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Law College, Centre for Postgraduate Studies and Research in Law, Mangaluru, hosted an Orientation Programme on the Functioning of Legal Aid Cell under its Legal Aid and Extension Cell/Arbitration Centre. The initiative, organized as part of the college’s IQAC activities, aimed to strengthen awareness about the critical role of legal aid in ensuring access to justice for all.

The programme was graced by Smt. Zaibunnisa, Senior Civil Judge and Member Secretary, DLSA Dakshina Kannada, as the Guest of Honour. She emphasized the responsibility of future lawyers in bridging the gap between law and society through meaningful engagement with legal aid services. Mrs. Ashwini Suvarna, Panel Advocate, DLSA Mangaluru, also addressed the gathering, offering practical insights into the functioning of legal aid mechanisms and the impact they create on vulnerable communities.

Presiding over the event, Dr. Tharanatha, Principal of SDM Law College, highlighted the college’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible law graduates. He underlined the importance of sensitizing students to the real-world challenges faced by marginalized groups and the transformative power of legal assistance.

The programme also shed light on the nationwide network of 15,100 Legal Information Service Centres established across India, enabling citizens to seek free and reliable legal guidance. This vast network has become a cornerstone in ensuring that justice is not a privilege for the few but a right accessible to all, irrespective of social or economic status.

The event was coordinated by Dr. Shubhalakshmi P, Faculty in charge of the Legal Aid and Extension Cell, along with the organising committee comprising faculty members, student coordinators, and volunteers. Their collective efforts ensured a meaningful and engaging platform for law students to connect with the larger vision of justice delivery in the country.

By conducting such initiatives, SDM Law College continues to reaffirm its vision of shaping not just legal professionals, but responsible citizens committed to the cause of social justice.

Demonstrating a genuine concern for individual dignity and collective well-being | He challenges the status quo and inspires others to see what is possible

NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044

The profound power of consistency is often forgotten in today’s times that glorifies viral fame and overnight success, . We are captivated by the meteoric rise, but we overlook the enduring impact of the steady flame. The story of Denny Vattakunnel; author, visionary, and social engineer, is a masterclass in the latter. His journey is not a sprint but a purposeful, compassionate marathon, a living testament to the ancient adage: Swift and Steady Wins the Race. His progress is measured not in headlines, but in transformed lives and a nurtured planet, proving that the most profound changes are built with patience and unwavering resolve.

The Bedrock of Consistency: A Legacy Forged Day by Day
To observe Denny Thomas Vattakunnel’s body of work is to understand that true impact is a cumulative effort. He is not a fleeting phenomenon but a constant, reliable force. As an author and thought leader, his consistency isn’t merely about frequent output; it’s about the unwavering quality and intention behind every word he writes, every speech he delivers, and every project he undertakes. This disciplined approach to his mission ensures that his message doesn’t just echo in the moment but sinks deep roots, fostering sustainable growth and lasting change in his community and beyond. He builds trust through his steadfast presence, showing up day after day with a commitment to his vision.

A Heart of Compassion: The Engine of a Social Engineer
Beneath the strategic mind of a visionary lies the beating heart of a profoundly compassionate human being. Denny’s work is fundamentally human-centric. His compassion is not a passive sentiment but the active engine of his social engineering. He moves beyond theory to touch the tangible needs of people, demonstrating a genuine concern for individual dignity and collective well-being. This innate empathy allows him to connect, understand, and design solutions that truly serve, making him a beacon of hope and a catalyst for empowerment. He sees potential where others see problems and invests in people with a belief that is both rare and revolutionary.

The Visionary’s Lens: Seeing a World Reimagined
A visionary does not merely predict the future; they actively work to create it. Denny Vattakunnel operates with this precise lens. He sees interconnected systems; social, economic, and environmental, and understands how to recalibrate them for the greater good. His authorship is a key to this vision, sharing ideas that challenge the status quo and inspire others to see what is possible. He is a social architect, drafting blueprints for a more equitable and compassionate society, and then meticulously working to bring those plans to life, brick by brick, community by community.

The Guardian’s Pact: Concern for Humanity, and for Nature Itself
What truly sets a paradigm-shifter apart is the breadth of their concern. Denny’s compassion extends far beyond the human sphere, embracing a holistic vision that includes the very environment we inhabit. His is a voice that recognizes the inextricable link between human welfare and planetary health. This concern for nature and the environment is not an add-on to his mission; it is a fundamental part of it. He advocates for a world where progress is not achieved at the expense of our planet, understanding that stewardship of the Earth is the ultimate act of social responsibility for future generations.

Denny Thomas Vattakunnel is a remarkable synthesis of thought and action, of heart and mind, of urgency for change and the patience to do it right. He embodies the principle that to win the race for a better world, one must be swift in compassion and steady in purpose. He is not just building a legacy; he is patiently, consistently, and compassionately engineering a brighter future for all.