Mangaluru, Jul 28: Rich tributes were paid to former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam at a condolence meet organized by ICYM, Mangaluru diocese at Kadri War Memorial here on Tuesday July 28.
ICYM members paid a unique tribute by collecting funds for the medical treatment of 8-year-old Navyashree, a cancer patient belonging to a poor family. Addresing the gathering, MLA J R Lobo said, “Dr Abdul Kalam showed great interest towards children and youth. He was a visionary and a humanitarian. He was very active till his death. He travelled throughout the world and carried the heritage of India to the world. He brought honour to the post of the President. Even though he was born in a poor family he struggled and rose to the highest level of success. He respected all religions equally. He is no more but his values and memories stay with us forever.
We have to follow his example and adopt his values, only then can we truly pay tribute to him.” Lobo also lauded ICYM for taking the initiative to raise funds for the cancer patient. MLC Ivan D’Souza said, “Dr Abdul Kalam had envisioned making India a superpower by 2020. He created a vision and motivated the youth to make India a developed nation. He was involved in various activities throughout his life. During his childhood he used to sell newspapers to earn his livelihood, and amidst so many difficulties he reached his goals. The values he has taught us will be remembered forever.
“ICYM’s initiative to help the girl is really commendable,” he added. On the occasion, ICYM Mangaluru diocese volunteers collected donations from those gathered at the venue. The funds collected so far will be opened in the presence of the girl’s close family and the entire amount would be used for her treatment.
Navyashree requires Rs 2.5 lac for treatment. The ICYM members urged Ivan D’Souza to help her, and in response, the MLC asked them to submit the relevant documents to him and promised to approach the chief minister to grant funds of at least Rs one lac. The gathering also lit candles to pay homage to Dr Kalam. ICYM Mangaluru director Fr Ronald, president Alwyn D’Souza, secretary Jackson D’Costa and relative of the girl Hemanth Kumar were present.
Courtesy : Daijiworld