Media Release
Bengaluru, Sep 1: More than 100 delegates representing Konkani Catholic Associations from across Bengaluru participated in the 29th annual general body meeting of the Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations (FKCA) held at Konkan Samudai Bhavan, Bengaluru, on August 30.
The AGM witnessed the election of a new team of office-bearers for the 2026–28 term, with Anthony Gonsalves re-elected as chairman of the federation.
The proceedings commenced with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by spiritual director of FKCA Dr Fr Francis Assisi Almeida. The liturgy was coordinated by KONCAB, with the Serenade Choir led by members of the Konkani Catholic Association, Mathikere.
The formal proceedings of the AGM were compered by Rayan Miranda, who guided the programme with clarity and elegance.
In his welcome address, outgoing chairman Anthony Gonsalves highlighted the key achievements, initiatives and programmes undertaken by FKCA during the past year. General secretary Zaveena Lobo presented the annual report, detailing the federation’s activities and accomplishments, while treasurer Paul Rodrigues presented the audited financial statements for the financial year 2024–25.
The AGM was graced by the presence of former FKCA chairmen Valerian Fernandes, Charles Gomes, Aida D’Cunha, Silvian Noronha, Dr Anand Edward D’Souza and Arun Fernandes.
The members also approved the reappointment of M/s Nanjunda & Co as the auditors for the new term.
The chairman, along with the office-bearers and presidents of the affiliated associations, handed over a sum of Rs 4 lac collected during Federation Day 2026 to the Prathiba Foundation, which works towards providing mentorship support and preparing students for civil services examinations.
The election of office-bearers for the 2026–28 term was conducted under the supervision of chief returning officer Sunil D'Cunha and his team. The following office-bearers were elected:
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Chairman: Anthony Gonsalves
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Vice chairman I: Sylvester D’Souza
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Vice chairman II: William Pinto
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General secretary: Zaveena Lobo
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Joint secretary I: Smruthi Mirium D’Souza
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Joint secretary II: Leena Lobo
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Treasurer: Paul Rodrigues
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Cultural secretary: Nishal Preetham D’Souza
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Immediate past chairman: Robert Cutinha
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Immediate past general secretary: Vincent D’Souza
The newly elected team takes charge with a renewed commitment to strengthening unity among Konkani Catholics, fostering community development, nurturing cultural heritage and promoting greater collaboration among Konkani Catholic Associations across Bengaluru and globally.
The AGM concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by vice chairman II M William Pinto, bringing the proceedings to a close followed by a fellowship meal.
With a new leadership team at the helm, FKCA looks forward to building on its legacy and creating greater opportunities for community participation, cultural preservation, youth engagement and collective growth in the years ahead.