St Aloysius University Vice-Chancellor Conferred Honorary Colonel and Colonel Commandant Rank
Mangaluru, July 16: Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, was conferred the honorary appointment of Honorary Colonel and Colonel Commandant by Air Commodore Kamal Chadha, Deputy Director General, NCC Directorate Karnataka and Goa, at a ceremonial function held at the university on July 16.
The honour recognises Rev. Dr. Martis’ outstanding contributions to education, youth empowerment, leadership and nation-building. In his honorary capacity, he will further strengthen the relationship between the university and the National Cadet Corps (NCC), while encouraging students to actively participate in NCC training, community service and national integration.
Addressing the gathering, Air Commodore Kamal Chadha emphasised that educational institutions and the NCC share a common responsibility in nurturing disciplined, confident and socially responsible citizens. He noted that NCC training instils leadership, courage, teamwork and a strong sense of national duty among young people.
Highlighting the achievements of the Mangalore NCC Group, he said it has a presence in 239 educational institutions across Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu and Shivamogga districts, with a strength of over 15,700 cadets. The group has earned distinction through outstanding performances at the Republic Day Camp, securing second place in the Inter-Group Championship, and winning honours in national-level Drone, All India Nau Sainik Camp, and Idea and Innovation competitions. Many NCC cadets have also gone on to join the Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces.
He added that the growing interest among educational institutions to introduce NCC into their curriculum reflects its vital role in developing disciplined, responsible and patriotic youth committed to leadership, community service and nation-building.
The ceremony was organised under the leadership of Colonel Viraj Kamath, Group Commander, Mangalore NCC Group, and Lieutenant Colonel R. P. Rai, Commanding Officer of 18 Karnataka Battalion NCC, Mangaluru.
The management, faculty, staff and students of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) congratulated Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ on receiving the prestigious national honour, recognising his exemplary leadership and significant contribution to the growth and success of the institution.
