Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Nov 27: The Nationalist Christian Forum organised a programme on Wednesday at the Kadri War Memorial to honour and pay tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the November 26, 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

“The nation remains safe because of the sacrifice of soldiers who guard the borders and protect the country from within, allowing citizens to live in peace,” said MLA D Vedavyas Kamath. He added that no amount of gratitude would be enough to honour such brave martyrs.

Forum founder Franklin Monteiro said the organisation has been conducting such programmes for the past 16 years to create national awareness in society. He stressed that there can be no compromise on national unity, integrity and security, and that the country must maintain zero tolerance towards terrorism. The forum has also been running a special campaign encouraging youth to join the armed forces, he added.

Rector of St Aloysius Institutions, Fr Melwin Joseph Pinto, presided over the event. Senior civil judge and District Legal Services Authority member Kavya Darshi Zabunnisa administered the oath of the Constitution.

Retired teacher Kazampady Subrahmanya Bhat delivered a tribute. Lt Col R P Rai, commanding officer of NCC 18 Karnataka Battalion; Libin A Johnson, commanding officer of NCC 5 Karnataka Naval unit; Lt Nitin Narayan, administrative officer of NCC 18 Karnataka Battalion; Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists’ Association president Pushparaj B N; CISF officer Kuladi Ramana, and others were present.

Floral tributes were offered to the martyrs at the Kadri War Memorial. This was followed by a silent rally and a gathering. Renowned Bharatnatyam artiste and world record holder Ramona Yvette Pereira and her team performed a dance tribute.

Lani Pinto rendered a prayer, and Arun Shet compered the programme.

 Youtube: