The Province of Dimapur is one of the three Salesian Provinces in the North East. It was bifurcated from the Province of Guwahati in the year 1982. Today the province is spread into Arunchal Pradesh, Upper Assam, Nagaland and Manipur.
Itanagar 9 June 2023: The 5th Junior Boys National Boxing Championship, organized by the Boxing Federation of India, is all set to take place from 8th to 14th July 2023. The prestigious event will be hosted by the Arunachal Pradesh Boxing Federation, with co-hosting support from Don Bosco College Itanagar. The Championship will witness the participation of talented young boxers from across the country, competing in various weight categories, including 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 57, 60, 63, 66, 70, 75, 80, and 80+ kilograms. The tournament is expected to draw over 600 boxers, coaches, managers, and officials, who will be accommodated at Don Bosco College Itanagar during the event. The management and staff of Don Bosco College Itanagar are diligently preparing the campus to ensure a seamless and successful Championship. With its state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, the college has become a much sought-after venue for both state and national level events. Speaking about the upcoming event, the college authorities expressed their gratitude and acknowledged the honour and privilege of hosting such a prestigious National Championship. They emphasized their commitment to providing a conducive environment and top-notch facilities to support the participants, enabling them to showcase their skills and talents on a national stage. As the countdown begins, anticipation and excitement fill the air, and the participants, officials, and boxing enthusiasts eagerly await the 5th Junior Boys National Boxing Championship hosted by Don Bosco College Itanagar. (IND Province Correspondence)
WE BECOME WHAT WE EAT Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14b-16a; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; John 6:51-58
We give a lot of thought to the food we eat. And that’s good because our diets significantly affect our lives and the planet. In many ways, we become what we eat. We need to pay attention to our spiritual diets because these affect us even more. Our minds gnaw at the stressors in our lives and soon we find we’re consumed by them. The media constantly bombards us with quick-fix ads, hateful speech, and violent entertainment; social media could give us even more negativity. It’s so easy for us to become angry, bitter, and materialistic. In the spiritual sense, it’s even more true – we become what we eat.
The readings on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ highlight the importance of spiritual nourishment. Jesus’ teaching in the Gospel takes place at the beginning of the feast of unleavened bread, which recalled how God nourished the people with manna and with his word in the desert (cf. first reading). While reiterating that memory, Jesus emphasizes that the bread he gives is different from the manna in the desert!
The manna that was not eaten within the day had to be thrown away; it was no longer any good. After Jesus fed the five thousand, twelve baskets of fragments were gathered and saved; this indicates that this bread lasts.
The manna was limited and only for the Jews. The bread which Jesus gives is for always and for all people.
The manna nourished the people only during the journey to the Promised Land. The bread of life nourishes us with eternal life. Jesus emphasizes that whoever eats his flesh and drinks his blood has eternal life. We become what we eat!
St Paul, in the second reading, reminds the people of Corinth about the significance of the Eucharist. By participating in the Eucharist, we become the body of Christ; we become one. We become—or we ought to become—what we eat.
Jesus nourishes us for always by giving us his word, and his body and blood. Am I satisfied with the junk food the world offers or do I feast on Jesus the Word and the Living Bread? Do I live in communion with those around me or is the Eucharist only a ritual act I perform?
Dimapur 7 June 2023: In a recent survey conducted by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), an initiative by the Government of India, several Christian colleges have achieved remarkable rankings, solidifying their positions among the top educational institutions in the country.
Leading the pack is St. Xavier’s College, securing the top spot among Christian colleges and placing 5th in the overall rankings. Loyola College closely follows, claiming the 7th position. St. Stephen’s College impressively secures the 14th rank, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence.
Madras Christian College secures the 16th position, while St. Joseph’s College achieves the 25th rank. Rajagiri College of Social Sciences secures the 30th position, showcasing its dedication to providing quality education. Bishop Heber College proudly claims the 34th spot, followed closely by Stella Maris College for Women at the 37th position.
Other notable Christian colleges making their mark include Jesus & Mary College at 37th, Holy Cross College at 40th, and St. Teresa’s College at 41st. Sacred Heart College (Autonomous) secures the 42nd position, with Mar Ivanios College, Bishop Moore College, and St. Thomas College closely following.
The NIRF rankings serve as a testament to the exceptional educational standards, rigorous academic programs, and holistic development opportunities offered by these Christian colleges across India. Their commitment to nurturing talent, fostering critical thinking, and promoting inclusivity has propelled them to be recognized as some of the finest institutions in the country.
The rankings were determined based on various parameters such as Teaching, Learning, and Resources; Research and Professional Practice; Graduation Outcomes; Outreach and Inclusivity; and Perception. The NIRF survey serves as a valuable tool for students, parents, and educators alike, aiding them in making informed decisions regarding higher education.
The Don Bosco colleges in Dimapur, namely Maram Don Bosco College, Kohima Don Bosco College, Dimapur Salesian College of Higher Education, Dimapur Bosco College of Teacher Education, Golaghat Don Bosco College, Jorhat Bosco Institute of Social Works, and Itanagar Don Bosco College, have been providing quality education and making a significant impact in their respective regions. While they may not have been featured in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Survey 2023, their contributions to education and character formation cannot be undermined. These institutions have a rich history of nurturing students’ talents, emphasizing discipline, and promoting social responsibility. Despite their absence from the rankings, they continue to shape the lives of countless individuals, preparing them for a successful future. Christian colleges have consistently played a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape of India, providing students with a strong foundation for their future endeavours. Their continued presence among the top-ranked institutions showcases their dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and the holistic development of their students.
The achievements of these Christian colleges in the NIRF rankings serve as a testament to their commitment to providing quality education and producing well-rounded individuals who will contribute significantly to society.
In a remarkable display of academic excellence, the Don Bosco Higher Secondary Schools in Assam have once again shown their mettle. The students have achieved outstanding performances across various streams.
In the Commerce stream, all 16 students from DBHSS Dibrugarh have successfully cleared the examinations, securing a 100% pass rate. Additionally, among the 62 students from DBHSS Doom Dooma, an impressive 59 students passed, resulting in an excellent pass percentage of 95.16.
In the Arts stream, DBHSS Doom Dooma witnessed a remarkable performance, with 126 out of 140 students passing the examinations, leading to an overall pass percentage of 90.00. Similarly, DBHSS Dibrugarh had 40 students passing out of 48, resulting in a commendable pass percentage of 83.33.
Furthermore, among the successful candidates, several students have secured First, Second and third divisions in their respective streams, showcasing their dedication and hard work.
The overall results for Don Bosco Higher Secondary Schools in Assam are exceptional, with a total of 241 students out of 266 successfully passing the examinations. This accomplishment reflects the commitment of both the students and the schools’ faculty to academic excellence.
Congratulations to all the successful candidates, and best wishes for their future endeavors.
Dimapur: 5 June 2023: Colleges under the Salesian Province in Dimapur Province joined the global celebration of World Environment Day, organizing various activities to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. Despite being on holiday, the colleges came up with innovative ways to mark the occasion, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment among students.
Kohima Don Bosco College demonstrated its commitment to environmental conservation by organizing insightful seminars. The college aimed to educate students about pressing environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and sustainable practices. The seminars provided a platform for students to engage in discussions and brainstorm potential solutions, encouraging them to become proactive participants in addressing environmental challenges.
In Itanagar, Don Bosco College took a unique approach to celebrate World Environment Day. Recognizing that the students were on holiday, the college encouraged them to celebrate the event in their own respective places. Students enthusiastically participated by preparing posters, planting trees, and cleaning their neighborhoods. The activities were carried out in their own homes and localities, and photographs documenting their efforts were shared in the College WhatsApp Group. This innovative celebration received widespread enthusiasm, highlighting the students’ dedication to environmental preservation and their ability to make a positive impact within their immediate surroundings.
Bosco College of Teacher Education in Dimapur, Nagaland, celebrated World Environment Day with the theme “Ecosystem Restoration.” The college joined the global event, which takes place annually on 5th June, to raise awareness about environmental protection and preservation. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable development in the face of overutilization of natural resources, the college planted saplings on its campus. The Principal, faculty members, and student community actively participated in this meaningful initiative to conserve the environment and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
While Don Bosco College, Maram, was on holiday, the other three colleges also organized celebrations to mark the occasion. Although specific details about their activities were not provided, their participation demonstrates the collective effort to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices among students.
The Salesian Province colleges in Dimapur Province exemplify the importance of instilling a sense of environmental consciousness among the youth. By organizing seminars, engaging in innovative celebrations, and encouraging individual actions, these colleges empower students to actively contribute to environmental conservation.
World Environment Day serves as a reminder that preserving and protecting the environment is a collective responsibility. The participation of these colleges reflects their dedication to nurturing environmentally conscious individuals who will become future leaders in environmental sustainability.
As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, the celebration of World Environment Day in Dimapur Province colleges serves as an inspiration for other educational institutions to follow suit and prioritize environmental education and action. By fostering a deep understanding of environmental issues and encouraging practical initiatives, these colleges contribute to building a greener and more sustainable future. – (IND Province Correspondence)
Dimapur, 5 June 2023: In celebration of World Environment Day, schools in Dimapur Province took various initiatives to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. Students actively participated in social work activities, seminars, rallies, and informative sessions, emphasizing the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
At Mon, Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, the students engaged in a dedicated social work campaign by cleaning their campus. With the aim of tackling plastic pollution, the school also took a step further by digging a dumping pit to collect waste materials, highlighting the need for responsible waste management.
In Longding, Don Bosco High School students enthusiastically participated in the World Environment Day 2023 event organized by Assam Rifles, Longding unit. Class 10 students attended a seminar and joined a rally to raise awareness about environmental conservation. The students praised the programme for its educational and informative nature, which provided them with valuable insights into pressing environmental issues.
In Zubza, Don Bosco Hr. Sec School observed World Environment Day 2023 with great enthusiasm. The school’s Eco Club organized a social work activity and animated the school assembly, captivating all the students with engaging talks, placards, and charts. The Eco Club members effectively conveyed the significance of environmental preservation, spreading awareness among their peers.
Don Bosco School in Doom Dooma celebrated World Environment Day with great enthusiasm within the school premises. The students, along with the dedicated efforts of the school staff, engaged in a range of activities to promote environmental awareness. They took part in a thorough cleaning drive, ensuring the school surroundings were free from litter and waste. Additionally, the students showcased their artistic talents by creating vibrant drawings highlighting the importance of environmental conservation. A tree plantation activity was also organized, with students actively participating in planting saplings, symbolizing their commitment to a greener future. The National Cadet Corps (NCC) unit of the school actively joined in these initiatives, fostering a sense of discipline and service towards environmental preservation. Don Bosco School, Doom Dooma’s celebration of World Environment Day within the school premises exemplifies their dedication to nurturing environmentally conscious individuals and creating a sustainable environment for all.
Don Bosco School in Paglam celebrated World Environment Day with a meaningful tree plantation activity that brought together Fr Kamil, the headmistress, and students. Recognizing the significance of tree planting in environmental conservation, the school community actively participated in this green initiative. With great enthusiasm, Fr Kamil (in-charg),, the headmistress, and the students joined hands to plant trees within the school premises. This collaborative effort symbolized their shared commitment to creating a sustainable environment. By engaging in this tree planting activity, Don Bosco School, Paglam demonstrated their dedication to nurturing a greener future and instilling environmental consciousness among their students.
Additionally, Don Bosco Hr Sec School in Dibrugarh, although on a holiday, also actively participated in World Environment Day. The students took the opportunity to contribute to the cause by planting trees at their homes. Despite being away from the school premises, the children demonstrated their commitment to environmental conservation by taking personal responsibility and understanding the significance of tree plantation in mitigating climate change and enhancing biodiversity. This initiative not only showcased their dedication but also emphasized the importance of individual actions in fostering a greener and healthier environment. The students of Don Bosco Hr Sec School in Dibrugarh set a commendable example of how small steps taken at the individual level can collectively create a significant positive impact on the environment.
The celebration of World Environment Day in these schools highlights the collective effort to address environmental challenges and instill a sense of responsibility towards the planet. Each school tailored its activities to suit their environment, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and education.
These initiatives taken by schools in Dimapur Province demonstrate their commitment to nurturing environmentally conscious citizens who are actively engaged in finding solutions to environmental issues. Such events play a vital role in shaping the younger generation’s mindset towards sustainability and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.
As World Environment Day continues to inspire schools and communities worldwide, the celebration in Dimapur Province serves as a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of students and educators in preserving and protecting the environment for a sustainable future.
GOD LOVES AND FORGIVES Exodus 34:4b-6, 8-9; Daniel 3:52-56; John 3:16-18
Thomas Edison was working on his crazy contraption: the “light bulb”. It took his team twenty-four hours to put together each bulb. Once, after the team finished crafting a bulb, Edison gave it to a boy to carry up to the storeroom. The youngster took each step with extreme and watchful caution. At the top of the stairs, he dropped the priceless piece of work. When the team finished the second bulb, after twenty-four hours of work, and it had to be carried upstairs to the storeroom, Edison gave it to the same boy!
Why would Edison forgive someone who destroyed his handiwork? It’s bizarre. It defies understanding. So does the reality that our God always forgives us though we constantly and repeatedly destroy his handiwork.
The readings on Trinity Sunday are not incomprehensible theology explaining the doctrine of the Trinity. They highlight something more incomprehensible and yet deeply consoling and hope-filled: God’s forgiving love! His love is not a sentimental love but a non-condemning and forgiving love.
The first reading describes the incident after the debacle of the golden calf. God is willing to renew the covenant with Israel despite its incessant infidelity. Why? He tells Moses that he is “a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger and rich in kindness and fidelity.” This succinct poetic description of God is an oft-repeated statement of Israel’s belief and describes God’s relationship with his people, one which is portrayed right through the Old Testament.
The gospel is a summary and the core of the Good News! Jesus tells Nicodemus that God sent his Son not to condemn the world but because he loved the world. Through his entire life and ministry, Jesus lived out this core of the Good News – he sought out the sinner and the outcast.
Grappling with the mystery of the Trinity – three persons, one God – is tough. It’s tougher to live out the mystery of the Trinity: to love as God loves, to forgive as God forgives. And yet this is what God calls us to do. In the second reading, Paul gives us a program to imitate our Trinitarian God: “Encourage one another, agree with one another, live in peace.” Do I forgive and love like God does? Whom will I forgive and love in the week ahead? How will I encourage and live in peace?
Kohima, 31 May 2023 : Bosco Green Alliance, in collaboration with the Departments of Sociology and Botany at Don Bosco College, Kohima (DBCK), successfully organized a comprehensive mushroom cultivation course certificate programme from April to May 2023. The initiative aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to cultivate mushrooms and encourage entrepreneurship in Nagaland.
The program commenced with theory classes on April 3rd, providing participants with a solid foundation in mushroom cultivation techniques. The theory sessions, conducted by faculty members from Bosco Green Alliance, the Department of Sociology, and the Department of Botany, covered various aspects of mushroom cultivation, including spawn production and cultivation methods.
After the theory classes, participants engaged in practical sessions held on May 8th, 9th, and 10th, 2023. These hands-on sessions allowed the aspiring mushroom cultivators to apply the knowledge they had acquired and gain practical experience in the cultivation process. Participants were guided by experienced faculty members who shared their expertise and provided valuable insights throughout the practical classes. The mushroom cultivation course certificate programme aimed to address unemployment concerns by promoting mushroom cultivation as a potential solution. Mushroom cultivation has gained recognition for its significant economic potential and relatively low capital requirements, making it an accessible option for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Zavelu, the coordinator of Bosco Green Alliance, expressed his satisfaction with the program’s outcome, stating, “We believe that mushroom cultivation can serve as a panacea to unemployment in Nagaland. Our aim was to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on their entrepreneurial journey in this field.”
The program received immense support from faculty members at DBCK, with Mr. Sanihe Ariijii, the Head of the Department of Sociology, and Dr. Velhou Koza, along with Mrs. Vephreseno Yhokha from the same department, actively contributing to the successful execution of the course. Additionally, Dr. Kizukala and Mr. Anthony from the Department of Botany played instrumental roles in facilitating the practical sessions.
The project expenses for the mushroom cultivation course amounted to 6000.00, which covered the necessary resources, materials, and facilitation costs. This investment was deemed essential to provide participants with a comprehensive learning experience and equip them with the skills required to establish successful mushroom cultivation ventures. The initiative aimed not only to teach participants the techniques of making spawn and cultivating mushrooms but also to foster their interest in entrepreneurship. By providing them with the necessary knowledge and practical experience, the programme aimed to encourage self-employment and empower individuals to explore opportunities in the mushroom cultivation sector.
The successful completion of the mushroom cultivation course certificate programme by Bosco Green Alliance and DBCK reflects their commitment to promoting sustainable entrepreneurship and addressing unemployment challenges in Nagaland. It is expected that the participants will utilize their newfound skills and knowledge to establish successful mushroom cultivation enterprises, contributing to the economic growth of the region. (IND Province Correspondence)
Dibrugarh, 28 May 2023: A transformative two-hour animation session on the Holy Bible was conducted at Don Bosco Dibrugarh, captivating the aspirants with insights into both the Old and New Testaments. On 28 May Bro. Charles and Bro. Binoy, esteemed animators, led the session, enlightening the eager participants and deepening their understanding of the scriptures. Bro. Charles took charge of teaching the aspirants about the Old Testament, unravelling the rich stories, teachings, and historical accounts found within its pages. With his engaging storytelling skills, he transported the young minds back in time, shedding light on the wisdom and significance of the Old Testament narratives. The aspirants attentively absorbed the lessons, gaining a deeper understanding of the foundations and values that shape their faith. In tandem, Bro. Binoy delved into the New Testament, sharing profound insights into the life, teachings, and messages of Jesus Christ and his disciples. The aspirants eagerly listened as he explored the Gospels, Epistles, and the Book of Revelation, revealing the transformative power of the New Testament teachings. Bro. Binoy’s animated delivery and relatable examples resonated deeply, igniting a sense of awe and reverence among the aspirants. The participants were ecstatic to take part in this enlightening event, recognizing the immense value of studying and understanding the Holy Bible. The animation session not only provided them with a deeper understanding of the scriptures but also fostered a sense of spiritual growth and connection. Rev. Fr. Nestor, the Rector of Don Bosco Dibrugarh, expressed his joy at witnessing the aspirants’ enthusiasm and active participation in the animation session. He commended Bro. Charles and Bro. Binoy for their dedication and expertise in making the Bible come alive for the young minds, instilling a sense of reverence and appreciation for the sacred texts. The Bible animation session served as a reminder of Don Bosco Dibrugarh’s commitment to holistic education, emphasizing the importance of spiritual and moral development alongside academic pursuits. By providing aspirants with a profound understanding of the scriptures, the institution continues to nurture young individuals who are well-grounded in their faith and equipped with the knowledge to navigate life’s challenges. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration among the aspirants. The profound teachings of the Old and New Testaments will undoubtedly serve as guiding lights in their spiritual journeys, fostering a deeper relationship with God and reinforcing the values instilled within them. Don Bosco Dibrugarh remains dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where aspirants can grow intellectually, morally, and spiritually. Through initiatives such as the Bible animation session, the institution ensures that its students are equipped with a solid foundation of faith and a comprehensive understanding of their religious heritage. (IND Province Correspondence)
Dibrugarh, 28 May 2023: A transformative two-hour animation session on the Holy Bible was conducted at Don Bosco Dibrugarh, captivating the aspirants with insights into both the Old and New Testaments. On 28 May Bro. Charles and Bro. Binoy, esteemed animators, led the session, enlightening the eager participants and deepening their understanding of the scriptures. Bro. Charles took charge of teaching the aspirants about the Old Testament, unravelling the rich stories, teachings, and historical accounts found within its pages. With his engaging storytelling skills, he transported the young minds back in time, shedding light on the wisdom and significance of the Old Testament narratives. The aspirants attentively absorbed the lessons, gaining a deeper understanding of the foundations and values that shape their faith. In tandem, Bro. Binoy delved into the New Testament, sharing profound insights into the life, teachings, and messages of Jesus Christ and his disciples. The aspirants eagerly listened as he explored the Gospels, Epistles, and the Book of Revelation, revealing the transformative power of the New Testament teachings. Bro. Binoy’s animated delivery and relatable examples resonated deeply, igniting a sense of awe and reverence among the aspirants. The participants were ecstatic to take part in this enlightening event, recognizing the immense value of studying and understanding the Holy Bible. The animation session not only provided them with a deeper understanding of the scriptures but also fostered a sense of spiritual growth and connection. Rev. Fr. Nestor, the Rector of Don Bosco Dibrugarh, expressed his joy at witnessing the aspirants’ enthusiasm and active participation in the animation session. He commended Bro. Charles and Bro. Binoy for their dedication and expertise in making the Bible come alive for the young minds, instilling a sense of reverence and appreciation for the sacred texts. The Bible animation session served as a reminder of Don Bosco Dibrugarh’s commitment to holistic education, emphasizing the importance of spiritual and moral development alongside academic pursuits. By providing aspirants with a profound understanding of the scriptures, the institution continues to nurture young individuals who are well-grounded in their faith and equipped with the knowledge to navigate life’s challenges. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration among the aspirants. The profound teachings of the Old and New Testaments will undoubtedly serve as guiding lights in their spiritual journeys, fostering a deeper relationship with God and reinforcing the values instilled within them. Don Bosco Dibrugarh remains dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where aspirants can grow intellectually, morally, and spiritually. Through initiatives such as the Bible animation session, the institution ensures that its students are equipped with a solid foundation of faith and a comprehensive understanding of their religious heritage. (IND Province Correspondence)
Salesian Province of Dimapur (IND) 