National Conference ‘Samudaya Sambrama 2025′ to Focus on Swasthir Bhavathu: Sustainable practices as a way of Life’
Mangaluru: Forum for Sustainable Development in association with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), School of Social Work (Autonomous) Roshni Nilaya, Mangalore, was inaugurated at Maria Paiva Hall on March 21, 2025, at 9.30 am by Padma Shri Satya Narayana Beleri. The unique inauguration was graced by the dignitaries as an homage to our sustainable traditions, with various sprouted saplings being watered while ‘Paardhana,’ a folk song sung during paddy cultivation, played in the background.
During his keynote address, Rev Fr. Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Director, CODP, Mangalore highlighted pollution, poverty, economic imbalances, weak policies, poor law enforcement, lack of adequate financial support, and resistance to change are impacting the adoption of sustainable practices. He emphasized that ‘Sustainability’ is not a choice, but responsibility and small acts can lead to big changes when we work together. He encouraged everyone not to limit sustainability as an idea but to embrace it as a way of life.
Padma Shri Satya Narayana Beleri in his Chief Guest’s address encouraged students to develop good hobbies which can develop as one’s purpose in life. He advised students to utilize their education and opportunities for self-development and the development of the community. The freedom and joy that one can obtain from the agricultural field might not be obtained elsewhere.
Prof. Eveleen Benis during her presidential address delved into how much of an inspiration she derived from briefly speaking with Mr. Beleri. In today’s world of “Me, Myself and I” attitude, meeting a “Person of Other Centeredness” is truly inspirational to render selfless service to the community, especially not looking into commercial gain but the sustainability of 650 local varieties of indigenous grains.
Forum for Sustainable Development felicitated Padma Shri Satya Narayana Beleri for his contribution to sustainable farming practices.
The inauguration will be followed by a session on Fostering Resilient Farming Practices; Insights from a Grassroots Perspective by Rev Fr Peter Asheervadappa, Director, Belgaum Diocesan Social Service Society, and a Panel Discussion on “Conscious Living: Rethinking What We Eat, Wear, and Protect” with eminent personalities from diverse background promoting sustainability such as Dr. Daniella Anne L Chyne, Asst. Prof. and HOD of PG Studies & Research in Food Science, St. Aloysious, Mangalore, Mrs. Mamatha Rai, President Kadike Trust, Udupi and Dr. Yashaswi Naravi, MVSc Wildlife Conservationist, Little Paws Veterinary Clinic, Mangalore.
The post-lunch session would conduct reel-making and Poster Making competitions simultaneously followed by a thematic presentation “Nritya Natyam’.
Prof. Anuradha Shetty, Conference Coordinator, Samudaya Sambrama, 2025 provided an overview of the day’s events and introduced the theme of the program, emphasizing the critical importance of sustainability for both present and future generations. The inaugural event was also attended by Dr Meena Monteiro, Dean, Post Graduate Studies, and Dr. Rosa Nimmy Mathew, IQAC Coordinator of School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya. Dr. Umme Hani, Assistant Professor of MSW welcomed the gathering. Mr. Neil Jeethan Miranda proposed the vote of thanks. The national conference saw the participation of more than 150 delegates.