Siliguri, 19 April: Salesian College (Autonomous), Siliguri, hosted the first-ever inter-parish youth convention SymphoriX 2026 on April 18–19 under the banner of the Salesian Youth Movement, with the theme “Let Your Light Shine” (Mt 5:16).
The convention brought together 109 students from classes 9 to 12 representing seven tea garden parishes of Bagdogra and Jalpaiguri dioceses, including Bagdogra, Matigara, Jaigaon on the Bhutan border, Sylee near Nagarkata, Oodlabari, Banchkumari in Alipurduar, and New Jalpaiguri.
Jalpaiguri parish won the overall championship trophy, followed by Don Bosco Parish Oodlabari.
The two-day event featured 12 competitions ranging from Group Dance, Band, Biblical Mime, and Tableau to innovative formats such as Visionary (Faith Shark Tank), Reel Making, Quizedom, Treasure Hunt, Face Painting, Rosary Making, and Illuminate (Painting/Drawing). A Pro-Life exhibition, free face painting, and student volunteers cooking meals added to the festive spirit.
Some 50 volunteers facilitated the convention under the leadership of SYM President Ashish Santah, while the entire program was coordinated by Rector Fr. Dr. Tomy Augustine, ensuring smooth organization and pastoral guidance.
On April 18, Bishop Fabian Toppo of Jalpaiguri presided over the Holy Eucharist at Don Bosco Shrine, urging youth to radiate hope, love, and positivity through their talents and leadership.
The inaugural function at Kilian Hall felicitated dignitaries including diocesan youth directors Fr. James Bara (Jalpaiguri) and Fr. Hemant Minj (Bagdogra), as well as Salesian Youth Delegate for South Asia, Fr. Patrick Lepcha. Bishop Paul Simick presided over the concluding Eucharist on April 19.
A distinctive highlight was the Night Olympics held at the college stadium, coordinated by Mr. Liander Ekka with SYM volunteers, six Salesian Brothers, and 15 Sister students.

Fr. CM Paul, SDB

Sonada: 18, April 2026: Salesian College Sonada celebrated a joyful and meaningful occasion, 14- 17, April 2026, marking the Ruby Jubilee of ordination of thirteen Salesian priests from five North and North Eastern provinces.

The jubilarians hailed from the provinces of New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong and Dimapur. A former Salesian of the same batch too joined the celebration.  Due to illness and other unavoidable reasons four could not be present for the jubilee, however they were remembered in different ways. 

The programme was held at Salesian College Sonada under the leadership of Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, the Rector of the college, who took the initiative in bringing the jubilarians together for this special occasion. 

The main celebration took place on 15th April and began with Holy Mass at 10:30 a.m., presided over by Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB. It was a prayerful moment of thanking God for the forty years of faithful service in the vineyard of the Lord.  A short felicitation programme followed the Eucharistic celebration.  The programme included a choir and a dance performance, which added joy to the celebration. Fr. Jose Anikuzhikattil SDB, rector of St. Anthony’s college, Shillong and full time professor at Sacred Heart College, Shillong, shared a message where he spoke about one’s journey towards priesthood, the importance of faith and dedication, and also his personal experiences and joys as a Salesian priest. Fr. Mathew Cherukattuparambil SDB, the vice-rector, spoke on behalf of the community congratulating the jubilarains. 

The time spent together by the jubilarians was spread across three days when they had several sessions of personal sharing of their priestly journey in their group. Some of them had to face physical assault, inhuman treatment from ecclesiastical authorities, and other frustrating experiences.  “Though they were testing moments, being a Salesian priest itself is so fulfilling”, observed one of them. At different moments over these days, all of them had opportunity to speak to the community when they shared about their priesthood, memories, and reflections from their years of priestly ministry. These moments of sharing were deeply enriching, both for the community, particularly for the brothers. 

A fellowship meal was also arranged, giving everyone the opportunity to interact and celebrate together in a spirit of unity and brotherhood.  Time also was set aside to visit Darjeeling to relive the memories of yester years. Before leaving, the jubilarians expressed their sincere gratitude to the community for hosting the event, where most of them returned for the first time after completing their post novitiate formation in 1980. 

Fr. Pritam Barla SDB,  a Salesian staff of the college shared his thoughts about the jubilee,  “In a profound display of faith and fraternal joy, eight priests celebrated their Sacerdotal Ruby Jubilee on 15 April 2026, marking forty years of dedicated service to the Church - a fitting offering of gratitude to the Lord. From the insights shared in homilies and ‘goodnight talks’ to the personal interactions with younger confreres, the atmosphere reflected renewed missionary zeal. Witnessing these priests as a living testament to long-term commitment was both humbling and a strong call to action.”

The Ruby Jubilee celebration ended on a joyful and thankful note, leaving behind many good memories for everyone who took part in it.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB

Sonada, 28 March 2026: Saesian College (autonomous) organized an international Tea Conference at Sonada where Tea Garden Managers, Garden owners, Hoteliers, Financial institution heads, Health workers, NGO workers, academicians, social workers and a whole lot of others associated with Darjeeling Tea met on a single platform on 27-28 March, 2026 to share, discuss,  deliberate and charter innovative paths for a Tea industry struggling to survive.

The conference theme ‘Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, life and legacy’ took a multi-disciplinary approach which examined production of Tea not just as a business but as a living and breathing cultural landscape that continue to shape lives of the people of the hills in untold ways.  The conference intended to approach the Tea community  which includes workers, women, youth and knowledge-keepers as the custodians of the region’s heritage and as the most essential contributors to its future.  

Eighty participants excluding the college students were brought together by the conference, most of whom presented papers or lectures on various aspects the world renowned beverage, Darjeeling Tea.  In his opening address Fr. (Dr.) Babu Joseph, the principal of the college said, “As a college deeply committed to academic excellence and social relevance, we believe it is our duty to provide a platform where stakeholders – planters, traders, policy managers academics and students – can come together to discuss these challenges and chart a way forward.”

The variety of papers and lectures, nearly 45 of them, presented by scholars like Dr. Eklavya Sharma, a Padma Shree Awardee, Strategic Advisor and Senior Fellow, ATREE and Dr. Kathrin Gassert, Director Tea Campaign Germany helped the participants to delve into many an unchartered area connected with Tea plantation and the industry. In his presidential address Mr. Binod Mohan, Chairman of Tea Promoters India, said about Darjeeling Tea, “One single concern is erosion of quality.”  He further stated that this conference could be a turning point to create conditions that make the workers stay back and not to migrate. 

Referring to the academic situation in China where every college has a stream on Tea for students to study, Mr. Shiv Kumar Saria, Managing Director Soongachi Tea Industry invited Salesian college to initiate a course on Tea. 

Speaking about the impact the conference on Tea plantation and the industry, Dr. Eklavya Sharma said, “Salesian college has provided a platform where various persons like researchers, planters, managers, and social workers could come together and share their experience. You also organized a Darjeeling Tea ceremony which many countries have but does not have in Darjeeling.” 

Mr. Jeewan Prakash Gurng, Whole time Director Tea promoters India speaking on the sidelines of the conference said, “I think this seminar literally is the first of its kind which happened in this part of the world, involving all aspects of Tea growing. It is an eye opener for all stake holders in Tea, ... and it should have a good impact on all aspects of Tea. Speaking about the uniqueness of the seminar Mr. Gurung said, “We had seminars before but they were restricted to technical and administrative aspects but this encompasses society, and the psychological aspects of tea.”

“I think it is a perfect starting because I fear Darjeeling Tea industry is in an infectious dire state and it  needs a multi stake holder approach”, shared Ms. Kathrine Gassert.  She further said that the conference provided the opportunity to look at Tea industry from various angles, including literature. 

The chief organizer of the conference was Fr. Tomy Augustine, Rector of Salesian College, Siliguri campus.  Apart from the various faculty members assisting him to get the conference move ahead, there were Mr. Rajah Banerjee, Rimpocha Tea Chairman T’Classic Darjeeling Pvt Ltd and Mr. Jeewan Prakash Gurung who collaborated in umpteen ways, including raising fund for the conference. 

Speaking about the contribution that Salesians have made to the Tea community Br. (Dr.) Jose Puthenpurackel SDB, the vice-principal of Sonada campus in his paper referred to the community engagement programmes of the college.  He said, “Over the decades, Salesian College has supported construction of schools, homes, and roads; implemented food-for-work and disaster relief initiatives and conducted literacy, skill development, and human development programmes.  Health initiatives addressing child nutrition, women’s empowerment, and child rights awareness have further strengthened community well-being”

Presenting a paper on the Jesuit contribution, Fr. (Dr.) K.L. George SJ referred how they were instrumental through their educational institutions to lay foundation for a broader, more inclusive, and equitable development in the lives of people regardless of religious, cultural, or linguistic difference. 

The conference dedicated a paper to Rev. Fr. Luigi Jellci SDB and the impact he had on the Tea Garden workers of Balasun Valley and Mirik. “The advent of Fr. Luigi Jellici brought a phenomenal impact that initiated significant transformation in the lives of the people in the neighbourhood of Sonada, Darjeeling”, said Sushna Subha, Asst. prof. Dept. of history, Kurseong College. 

As the curtain came down on the two-day conference, Fr. Tomy Augustine thanked the Salesian community of Sonada for hosting the conference and extending whole hearted assistance to the organizers and to the participants. 

The brothers under the leadership of Frs. Anjulus Minj, the bursar and Fr. Clement Lakra, the Dean of studies ensured that the guest were extended a very warm welcome., food and accommodation. 

Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB

Sonada, 27 March: Salesian College (Autonomous), Sonada, in collaboration with Tea Promoters India and Rimpocha Tea, launched a two-day international conference on “Darjeeling Tea: Leaf, Life, and Legacy – A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Place, People and Possibility.”
The inaugural session on 27 March featured addresses by Mr. Binod Mohan, President of Tea Promoters India, Chief Guest Mr. Chandra Shekhar Ghosh, Founding Chairman of Bandhan Group, and keynote speaker Mr. Rajah Banerjee of Rimpocha Tea and Chairman of T’Classic Darjeeling.
Over the two days, 34 academic papers are being presented across eight technical sessions. Day one, held in hybrid mode, brought together national and international scholars, industry leaders, and community representatives to deliberate on the cultural, economic, and ecological significance of Darjeeling tea. Afternoon sessions explored themes of environment and sustainability, tea communities, literature, and gender and labour, with 18 papers delivered.
Day two will feature plenary discussions and four parallel sessions covering media and innovation, alternative livelihoods, life in tea gardens, and multidisciplinary perspectives, adding 16 more papers to the tally.
Alongside the academic program, a photographic exhibition on Darjeeling tea, a tea-tasting stall, and publications on tea and the Eastern Himalayas are on display.
Established in 1938 in Gorabari village near Sonada, Salesian College has been a cornerstone of higher education in the Darjeeling hills for nearly nine decades. Having attained autonomous status in 2023, the college marks a historic milestone by hosting its first international tea conference. Since 1963, its students have continued Sunday outreach programs in 24 far-flung tea gardens.
By convening diverse voices to deliberate on the legacy and future of Darjeeling tea, Salesian College reaffirms its role as custodian of regional heritage and catalyst for innovation and sustainability in the tea industry.

Azimganj, 19 March – The INC U-17 Boys Football Team has officially finalized its 18-member roster following an intensive five-day selection camp held at Don Bosco High School, Azimganj. The camp, which ran from March 5 to March 9, 2026, evaluated 33 young prospects through a series of fitness tests, tactical drills, and practice matches to identify the region's top talent.

The final squad features a strong contingent from the host town, complemented by skilled players from Samthar, Krishnanagar, and Katihar. These athletes were selected based on their technical proficiency, teamwork, and physical conditioning during the high-pressure evaluation period.

The team is now entering a concentrated preparation phase before traveling to Kochi for a series of competitive matches scheduled for April 27, 28, and 29, 2026. These upcoming fixtures are designed to provide the players with vital exposure to high-level competition and foster their growth in the sport.

The Official INC U-17 Squad

The following players have been selected to represent the team:

Rimil Kisku – Azimganj

Subham Sarkar – Krishnanagar

Alone Mangar – Samthar

Simon Lepcha – Samthar

Ajit Mardi – Azimganj

Rosen Soren – Azimganj

Rana Hasda – Azimganj

Parosh Murmu – Azimganj

Joseph Murmu – Krishnanagar

Rajib Kisku – Azimganj

Rohit Murmu – Krishnanagar

Anusent Marandi – Azimganj

Patoras Hansda – Azimganj

Dipak Hansda – Katihar

Bijoy Murmu – Azimganj

Tadius Mardi – Azimganj

Sohel Seikh – Krishnanagar

Subhodip Murmu – Krishnanagar

Howrah, 19 March – Don Bosco Technical School celebrated the Feast of St. Joseph, the patron of workers, on March 19 by inaugurating a newly refurbished electrician laboratory. The event marked a significant upgrade to the institution’s vocational training infrastructure, aimed at enhancing technical excellence for its students.

The day’s proceedings began with a Solemn Eucharist presided over by Father Moloy D’Costa, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Kolkata. Following the religious service, the modern laboratory facility was officially opened, fulfilling a long-standing vision to provide students with industry-standard equipment and a modernized learning environment.

The renovation project was spearheaded by the school’s Principal, Fr. Banti Mondal, whose guidance steered the initiative from concept to completion. The upgrade reflects the institution's commitment to adapting to evolving industrial requirements while honoring its foundational mission of empowering the workforce.

Staff and students played a direct role in the refurbishment process, contributing labor and technical support over several months. During the ceremony, the school administration credited this collective effort as the primary driver behind the project's success.

As the technical school looks forward, the new laboratory is expected to serve as a hub for practical skill development, echoing the spirit of St. Joseph in the pursuit of professional integrity and craftsmanship.

13 March 206, Sonada: The Department of Philosophy of Salesian College Sonada (Autonomous), organized a memorial lecture in honour of Rev. Fr. Lo Groi in the campus on the 13th of March, 2026. The lecture was delivered by Ms. Ragani Chettri, Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology in the College on “Gender and the Body: How Society Shapes What Feels Natural.”

The day’s programme began with welcoming of the resource person and the distinguished guests with traditional khadas. Br. Jose Puthenpurackel, the Vice Principal of the College paid tribute to Rev. Fr. Lo Groi by garlanding his portrait and Fr. Tomy Augustine gave a short life sketch of his. Fr.  Mathew Cherukattuparmabil, Head of the Department of Philosophy, introduced Ms Ragani Chettri, the speaker of the day  who holds an M.A. in Sociology from the University of North Bengal. She has presented several papers in national seminars and has publications to her credit. 

In her lecture titled “Gender and the Body: How Society Shapes What Feels Natural,” Ms Chettri explained that many ideas about masculinity and femininity are not simply natural but are strongly shaped by society. She highlighted how social institutions such as family, education, religion, and media influence the way individuals learn and internalize gender roles from childhood. Referring to Simone de Beauvoir, she explained the famous statement that one is not born but rather becomes a woman, emphasizing the role of social conditioning. She also discussed the theory of Judith Butler, who argues that gender is formed through repeated actions and behaviors.

The lecture further explored the views of Michel Foucault on how institutions shape human behavior and regulate bodies. She also referred to Raewyn Connell, who discusses different forms of masculinity, and Kimberlé Crenshaw, known for developing the concept of intersectionality, which explains how gender interacts with race, class, and culture. In her concluding remarks, the speaker emphasized that achieving gender justice requires broader social change, equal opportunities, and respect for diverse identities.

After the presentation, Fr. Pritam Barla, the Campus Minister, chaired a brief session for questions and clarifications and delivered the concluding remarks. The programme concluded with  vote of thanks proposed by Br. Titus Gonmei Gaisuakpou sdb 

Br. Abhishek Rai sdb

14 March 2026, Sonada: Salesian College Sonada (Autonomous) organized the annual Inter-Institutional Jelleci Memorial Basketball Tournament on 14 February 2026 in the college grounds. A total of 10 teams participated in the tournament.

The event began with an inaugural ceremony, which included the lighting of the lamp followed by the traditional offering of a khada to the portrait of Fr. Jelleci. This was followed by a short introduction about Fr. Jelleci delivered by Br. Dr. Augustine Joseph, Vice Principal. The officials were then felicitated, and the tournament was formally declared open by Fr. Pritam Barla, Campus Minister.

In the men’s category, Salesian College Sonada emerged as the champions, while Salesian College Siliguri secured the runners-up position.

In the women’s category, Salesian College Siliguri claimed the championship, with Salesian College Sonada finishing as the runners-up.

Br. Banteiburom Mukhim was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the men’s category, while Milisa Rai received the MVP award in the women’s category.

The event concluded with  vote of thanks delivered by Pema Tamang, marking the successful completion of the tournament.

Overall, the Jelleci Memorial Basketball Tournament was conducted successfully and showcased sportsmanship, teamwork, and enthusiastic participation from all teams.

Ms. Anjana Rai

03 March 2026, Sonada: Gorabari Youth Centre, One of the twenty two youth centres managed by Salesian college, Sonada working for the welfare and development of young people of the hills, in collaboration with Team Agastya, organized a One-Day Bosco Basketball Tournament for the young men and boys of North Bengal on the 1st of March 2026 in the college grounds.

The tournament began with the inauguration at 9:40 a.m. The Chief Guest for the day was Rev. Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, the Rector of Salesian College Sonada. During his short message, Fr. Rector spoke about the importance of sports in building discipline, unity, and good character among young people. He encouraged all the players to play with honesty and true sportsmanship. The two officials of the day, Mr Rajak and Mr Sarbak from Siliguri, were also welcomed during the inaugural ceremony, and they ensured that all the matches were conducted fairly and smoothly.

There were six teams participating in the tournament: Agastya, Salesian Sonada, 4Hunnids, Truth, Raijin, and Spire. All the teams gave their very best and showed great teamwork and determination. The matches were very competitive and at many moments, it was a neck-to-neck contest. The players showed needed techniques and  skills and a good sporting spirit throughout the day, which made the tournament enjoyable for everyone present.

After several exciting rounds, Team 4Hunnids and Team Agastya reached the finals. The final match was intense and well played by both sides. The score remained close, and both teams fought hard until Team 4Hunnids emerged as the winners with a score of 39–31. 

During the closing ceremony Team 4Hunnids received the winners’ trophy and cash prize, and Team Agastya was awarded as runners-up. Individual awards were also given to players who performed exceptionally well. Nigel Rai was awarded Rookie of the Year, Ugen Sherpa received the Best Scorer award, and Pratham Lama was declared the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament. 

The officials shared a few words, expressing their appreciation for the smooth organization of the event and praising the sportsmanship shown by all the teams. Abhinay Tamang, one of the players said, “This tournament was a very good experience for me. The organizing team did a great job, and I especially thank the referees for their fair and clear decisions. I also enjoyed meeting new players, and the overall environment of the tournament was really great.” Anidhy Thapa, another participants voiced, “It was a wonderful and new experience for me. I would encourage that more such tournaments be organized in the future. I sincerely thank the college and all the organizers for their efforts in making this event possible.”

The tournament came to an end at 6:30 p.m. with a vote of thanks delivered by Br. Banteiburom Mukhim. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, officials, players, and organizers for making the event successful. The day concluded with a group photo session, marking the end of a memorable and meaningful Bosco Basketball Tournament 2026.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang

Krishnagar, 24 January: The Centenary Football Tournament came alive at Don Bosco Krishnagar with a full day of energetic football, youthful enthusiasm, and a strong spirit of sportsmanship, marking a hundred years of the Salesian presence in Kolkata. Organised as a one-day tournament, the event placed young people at the centre of the celebrations, using football as a living expression of the Salesian commitment to education, discipline, and fraternity.

The tournament was inaugurated by Fr. V. T. Jose, Rector of Don Bosco Krishnagar, who also distributed the trophies and prize money at the conclusion of the matches. His presence and encouragement gave the event both inspiration and direction, linking the excitement on the field with the deeper meaning of the centenary celebrations.

This sporting celebration drew its significance from history. In 1925, the Salesians began their mission in Kolkata by taking up the responsibility of the Archdiocese Cathedral of Kolkata and the Catholic Orphan Press. A century later, the same Salesian spirit was visible on the football field, where young players competed with passion while upholding values of fairness, respect, and teamwork.

The tournament witnessed keen competition across Senior and Junior categories, with teams representing institutions, seminaries, parishes, and youth centres. The Senior Category (12 Teams) featured Don Bosco ITI Krishnagar (A), Don Bosco ITI Krishnagar (B), Amghata Regional Seminary, Don Bosco Mirpara, Don Bosco Azimganj (A), Don Bosco Azimganj (B), Bandel Parish – Rajhat, Don Bosco Seminary Bandel, Don Bosco Liluah, Don Bosco Mukti Nagar (Chandra), Vianney Home Seminary, and Don Bosco Krishnagar – Salesians. In the Junior Category, (4 teams) teams from Don Bosco English Medium Krishnagar, Don Bosco Azimganj (A), Don Bosco Azimganj (B), and Don Bosco Youth Centre Krishnagar took part, bringing vibrancy and youthful excitement to the tournament.

At the end of a closely contested day, Don Bosco ITI Krishnagar (B Team) emerged as the Senior Category champions, lifting the trophy and receiving a cash prize , while Don Bosco Azimganj finished as runners-up and were awarded cash prize along with a trophy. In the Junior Category, Don Bosco English Medium Krishnagar claimed the championship and received cash prize with a trophy, and Don Bosco Youth Centre Krishnagar secured the runners-up position with cash prize and a trophy. Individual awards for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Best Scorer, and Man of the Match further recognised talent, effort, and fair play.

The tournament was efficiently coordinated by Fr. Manoj and Fr. Nicholas, with the dedicated support of Bro. Praveen, Bro. Robin, Bro. Uttam, Bro. Sanju, Bro. Ankit, and Bro. John, ensuring the smooth conduct of all matches. As the final whistle blew, the Centenary Football Tournament stood as a powerful reminder that, for the Salesians, sport remains a vital space where young people grow, bonds are strengthened, and a century-old legacy continues to move forward with hope and energy.