Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ: A Shepherd of Education, Leadership and National Service
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
16 July 2026 will forever remain a landmark day in the illustrious history of St. Aloysius Deemed to be University, Mangaluru. On this memorable occasion, the university witnessed a rare and prestigious moment as Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ, Vice Chancellor, was ceremonially conferred the rank of Honorary Colonel and appointed Colonel Commandant of the National Cadet Corps. The magnificent Pipping Ceremony, held at the LCRI Auditorium in the distinguished presence of Air Commodore Kamal Chadha, Deputy Director General, NCC Karnataka and Goa Directorate, symbolised not merely a military honour but the recognition of a lifetime devoted to nation building through education.
The honour reflects a profound truth. Leadership is measured not only by academic achievement but also by the ability to inspire generations to serve a cause greater than themselves.
For more than a decade, Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ has transformed the NCC ecosystem at St. Aloysius into one of the finest in the country. Under his visionary stewardship, the university has strengthened its proud legacy of hosting all three wings of the National Cadet Corps. His unwavering commitment has resulted in modern infrastructure, expanded training opportunities and an institutional culture where discipline, patriotism and excellence flourish naturally.
His vision extends far beyond producing graduates. He believes that education must shape responsible citizens, compassionate leaders and committed servants of the nation. Every initiative undertaken during his tenure reflects this philosophy. Whether encouraging cadets to excel at Republic Day Camps, national competitions, adventure activities or community service, he has consistently emphasised that character is the highest form of education.
The impact of this leadership is visible in the remarkable achievements of the university’s cadets. Numerous Aloysians have gone on to serve with distinction in the Armed Forces, while many others continue to contribute to society as exemplary citizens guided by the NCC motto, Unity and Discipline. Every success story bears testimony to the environment nurtured under his guidance.
Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ embodies the rich Jesuit tradition of forming men and women for and with others. Inspired by the ideals of St. Ignatius of Loyola, himself once a soldier before embracing religious life, he seamlessly integrates academic excellence with service, leadership, integrity, compassion and patriotism. Under his leadership, St. Aloysius has become a place where classrooms produce scholars and parade grounds produce leaders.
Wearing the Uniform with Humility and Honour | Colonel Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ
The conferment of the rank of Honorary Colonel upon Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ was a ceremonial recognition. It represented the culmination of a lifelong commitment to education, leadership and national service. Speaking with characteristic humility, he described the honour as a collective achievement belonging to the entire St. Aloysius University family. For him, the uniform was not merely an emblem of rank. It symbolised sacrifice, discipline, courage and the unwavering commitment of the countless men and women who dedicate their lives to safeguarding the nation. Accepting the appointment as Colonel Commandant, he reaffirmed his resolve to uphold these ideals with integrity and responsibility, recognising that the distinction carried not privilege alone but a solemn duty to inspire future generations.
Reflecting on the university’s enduring association with the National Cadet Corps, Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ celebrated the remarkable journey of its cadets who have consistently distinguished themselves through leadership, service and excellence. He acknowledged the invaluable contribution of Associate NCC Officers, commanding officers, faculty members, support staff and alumni whose dedication has strengthened the institution’s proud tradition.
He expressed particular pride in the many Aloysians who have entered the Armed Forces and those who continue to serve the nation in diverse capacities. Emphasising that leadership is measured by the lives one influences rather than the authority one holds, he encouraged every cadet to embrace the values of unity, discipline, resilience and compassion, reminding them that true patriotism is reflected in service to both the nation and humanity.
The Vice Chancellor spoke with a deeply personal reflection on his lifelong admiration for the Armed Forces, inspired by his father’s military service and his own early experiences as an NCC cadet. Recalling how the dream of wearing the uniform had remained close to his heart, he dedicated this historic honour to the youth of St. Aloysius University and to the young people of Mangaluru.
He envisioned a future in which every graduate carries forward the values of discipline, integrity and selfless service nurtured through the NCC. Expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Society of Jesus, the NCC Directorate, the Ministry of Defence, university colleagues, students, family and friends, he reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the university’s partnership with the National Cadet Corps and inspiring generations to march forward with courage, conviction and an unwavering love for the motherland.
