Puttur, June 30: Manjunath T. V., a second-year B.Sc. student of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, has been selected to serve in the Indian Air Force as a Medical Assistant. He is set to report at the Military Training Centre in Bengaluru on July 1, 2025, thus realizing a long-cherished dream of joining the armed forces.
A native of Kodagu district, Manjunath is the proud son of educators Venkatesh T. J. and Radhamani G. R., from the Virajpet taluk. Since 2013, he has actively participated in several selection processes across various branches of the Indian Armed Forces. His relentless perseverance has finally borne fruit with his selection into the prestigious Indian Air Force. In honour of this remarkable achievement, the college organised a formal felicitation ceremony.
Presiding over the event, the Principal of St Philomena College, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, hailed the commitment of soldiers as comparable to that of monks who renounce worldly ties. “A soldier is one who is willing to sacrifice even his life for the nation, forsaking personal comfort and family for the greater cause of national service. Such dedication requires not only divine grace but also the blessings of parents,” he said, presenting a floral bouquet to the proud parents of Cadet Manjunath and extending his heartfelt congratulations.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Principal Dr Vijay Kumar Moleyar emphasized the significance of Manjunath’s accomplishment in the current scenario, where fewer young men and women are opting to join the armed forces due to perceived hardships, modest remuneration, and lack of parental encouragement. “Despite facing multiple setbacks in previous recruitment processes, Cadet Manjunath remained undeterred and committed. His success today brings pride to the college, his hometown, and especially to his parents,” Dr Vijay Kumar noted.
Dr Vinaychandra, Controller of Examinations, Dr Edwin D’Souza, Finance Officer, Vipin Naik, Academic Assistant Registrar, Abhishek Suvarna, Assistant Controller of Examinations and Dr Malini K, IQAC Coordinator, Faculty members, administrative staff, and students were also present in large numbers to witness the occasion.
Captain Johnson David Sequeira, the college NCC Officer, compered the felicitation ceremony and lauded Cadet Manjunath’s journey as an inspiring example for youth aspiring to serve the nation through the defence services.
The entire St Philomena College community joins in wishing Cadet Manjunath T. V. great success in his military career and salutes his dedication to the nation.