Mangalore, Nov 27: The 9th annual Pingara Rajyotsava Award, instituted by Pingara weekly, was presented to philanthropist Eric Correa at Town Hall here on Tuesday November 26.
Mangalore Bishop Rev Fr Aloysius Paul D’Souza conferred the Award on Correa in recognition of his distinguished service to the society. Correa has constructed as many as 98 houses for the poor as part of his Sauharda Nagar projects.
In his address the Bishop hailed the efforts made by Correa to serve the poor in the society by building houses for them and thereby fulfilling one of their basic necessities. His works should serve as an inspiration to others, the Bishop said.
Raghuram Bhandary, joint secretary to the government and special officer (banking), state finance department, said, “Although Eric Correa is young in age, his work for society is highly laudable.” He appreciates Pingara for instituting the award which he said would motivate others too.
Afetr receiving the award Eric Correa thanked Pingara for recognising him. “I do not go after any award, but it has come to me. I dedicate this award to all my supporters. This award is a source of encouragement to me,” he said, thanking his parents and wife for their support and prayers.
Gopal Bhandari, MLA, VP Lobo and Managing Director of T3 Urban Developers were present as chief guests. Roy Castelino, who was among the jury, read the citation, while Titus Noronha introduced Eric Correa.
Harikrishna Punaroor, former president of the Sahitya Parishat, Srikar Prabhu, Fr William Menezes, Rohan Monteiro, Managing Director of Rohan Corporation, Dr BG Suvarna. Raymond D’Cunha., Editor of Pingara and others were present on the occasion.
