16th August, 2024: Salesian College (Autonomous) Siliguri organized a significant event to celebrate Don Bosco Jayanti, with a special talk focusing on the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor in enhancing India’s diplomatic and economic relations with neighboring countries. The event was graced by the presence of Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the Chief Guest, who brought his vast diplomatic experience as the former Ambassador of India to the USA and Thailand, and High Commissioner to Bangladesh.

The event was attended by dignitaries, faculty members, and first-semester students, creating an engaging environment for discussion on regional connectivity and international relations. The program was hosted by Peter Lepcha, PG Coordinator, and the Chief Guest was introduced by Rakesh Dhakal, Assistant Professor at Salesian College.

In his address, Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla emphasized the vital role of the Siliguri Corridor as a strategic link that has the potential to significantly bolster India’s ties with its neighboring countries. He highlighted the corridor’s importance as a crucial trade route and stressed the need for infrastructural development and policy reforms to facilitate smoother cross-border exchanges. He remarked, “By leveraging this corridor, we can unlock new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, ultimately fostering a stronger and more integrated South Asian region.”

The event also featured an insightful address by CM Ravindran, the Vice Chancellor of North Bengal University (NBU). He focused on the future of government examinations, offering guidance to the students on the importance of hard work, preparation, and dedication. He elaborated on the structure of these exams, which are divided into three phases, and emphasized that only the most diligent and well-prepared candidates succeed at all levels.

The celebration concluded with an interactive session where students engaged with the speakers, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Abhijit Chakraborty, Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce. The event was not only a tribute to Don Bosco but also an enlightening experience for the students, encouraging them to reflect on the broader implications of regional connectivity and the importance of diligent preparation for their future careers.

Tissa Sen
B.A. Mass Communication & Journalism
III Year