Mysore/Mysuru: St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Bannimantap, Mysuru, commemorated Vijay Diwas in a grand and solemn ceremony on Dec. 16, marking India’s decisive victory in the Indo-Pak War and the Liberation of Bangladesh in 1971. [Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated on July 26 in commemoration of the Kargil War].

The celebration was a collaborative effort by the 3 Kar Naval and 16 Kar Battalion – NCC Units, the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and the Institution’s Innovation Council.

The event remembered the valour, sacrifice and indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.

The highlight of the day was the inauguration and wreath-laying at the newly erected War Memorial, a tribute conceived and executed jointly by IQAC and NCC Units of the college.

Rev. Dr. Lourdu Prasad Joseph, Rector, led the tributes by placing the first wreath at the memorial, honouring the memory of the brave martyrs.

This was followed by floral tributes by other dignitaries present, symbolising the institution’s respect and gratitude for the defenders of the nation.

Rev. Fr. Gnana Pragasam, Campus Administrator; Rev. Fr. S. David Sagarayaj, Assistant to the Rector; Dr. Ravi J.D. Saldanha, Principal; Ronald Prakash Cutinha, Vice-Principal; Dr. C. A. Noor Mubasher, PG Coordinator; Dr. Reena Francis, Controller of Examinations; C. Anand, Dean of Academic Affairs and Lydia Anjali, UUCMS Coordinator, were among those present.

The event was supported by the following NCC and IQAC Coordinators: Sub. Lt. Eliezer Vishwas (ANO, 3 Kar Naval Unit – NCC); Francis Devasahayam (CTO, 16 Kar Battalion – NCC);  A. Thomas Gunaseelan (IQAC – Coordinator) and Dr. V. Deepa (IQAC – Co-Coordinator).

The celebrations underscored the College’s commitment to instilling values of patriotism, discipline and national service among its students.

The dignitaries emphasised the historical significance of Dec. 16 and the importance of remembering the sacrifices that secured the nation’s integrity.

The War Memorial at St. Philomena’s College will stand as a permanent source of inspiration and a reminder of the historical event for the current and future generations of students.