Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur
Kundapur, Sep 22: Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, a prominent religious leader of the Udupi diocese, emphasised the significant achievements of the Rosary Credit Cooperative Society during a recent celebration marking its milestone of Rs 1,000 crore in business.
Speaking at the event held at the Koteshwara Cooperative Convention Centre, he said, “Cooperative societies play a crucial role in supporting economic progress, acting as a beacon of hope and assistance during crises."
Gonsalves emphasised that cooperative societies should focus not only on deposit collection and lending but also on the economic development of their members, which strengthens the organisation. He noted that the society has grown significantly by continuously earning the trust of its members.
Johnson D’Almeida, who leads the society, remarked on the transformative impact of cooperative principles and effective organization. “Through our collective efforts, we have successfully reached out to our members and addressed their needs,” he noted.
He added that the society has received continuous recognition from the Dakshina Kannada District Cooperative Bank for its overall development over the past five years.
Dr M N Rajendra Kumar, chairman of the Dakshina Kannada District Central Cooperative Bank, commended the society for generating Rs 4.05 crore in profit with 12 branches, alongside providing a 22% dividend to members. He stated, “Building a cooperative society is easy, but maintaining its progress is challenging. This achievement is commendable.”
He noted the emergence of numerous nationalised banks in the undivided Dakshina Kannada district, but pointed out that they are currently diminishing. In contrast, cooperative societies are thriving by providing excellent service and promoting economic self-reliance among their members.
Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Media attributed the success to the society’s dedication and strategic planning. “With time and thoughtful effort, this achievement has become possible,” he stated.
He expressed confidence that the society would reach another Rs 1,000 crore in business within the next eight years. “Now that we have reached this milestone, it is important to view it not as an endpoint, but as part of an ongoing journey of progress,” he added.
The event also unveiled a new initiative to identify impoverished families across five regions and provide them with housing support. All attending guests were honoured, and Johnson D’Almeida received accolades from the members.
The programme was attended by CEO Mabel D’Almeida and the directors, as well as prominent religious figures including the Rev Paul Rego and Lavanaya K R, deputy registrar of cooperatives for Udupi district.
Messages from Monsignor Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi, and philanthropist Dr Ronald Colasso were also read during the event.
Kiran Melvin Lobo, vice-president of the Rosary Credit Cooperative Society, welcomed the guests, while director Wilson D’Souza offered the vote of thanks. Alvin D’Souza coordinated the event.
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