India lacks vision, strategy, character and leadership. Rachana has the ability to bring in change, said Rehabilitation- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (Government of India) Chairman Major General (Rtd) Ian Cardoza.

Speaking at the Rachana Awards 2012 at Milagres Jubilee Hall in Mangalore on Sunday, he said as a soldier, for him country has always come first. However, today it is disappointing to see pollution that is being caused by certain units of commerce and industry.

“With the use of dangerous pesticides, children are being affected with various disabilities. Profit is not the only motive. Pollution can not be accepted and should not be allowed,” he stressed.

“I salute Mangaloreans. When Portuguese attacked Goa and forced its people to stop their traditions, a certain section refused to do so. They moved to Mangalore and kept their tradition alive here and set up a beautiful community,” he said.

Rachana Outstanding Woman of the Year award was conferred on Prajna Counselling Centre Founder Professor Hilda Rayappan. Receiving the honour, she said, “I have not made Prajna but Prajna has made me”. Speaking about her life, she said that her family had shifted to Mangalore from Tamil Nadu. I realised, I have a special call to serve others when I was 18 and decided to take it up. It has been over 30 years. Prajna has grown exponentially and has 68 dedicated employees working for it. I dedicate this award to them,” she said.

Rachana Agriculturist of the year was given to Florine Pinto from Perne. Pinto who has developed over 20 acre of land with a wide variety of crops said that she was honoured to receive the award. “With modernisation, the younger generations do not show interest in agriculture. This should not happen. Agriculture should continue,” she stressed.

Rachana Entrepreneur of the year award was bestowed to Federation of Indian Export organisation Chairman Walter D’Souza. “India needs to concentrate on inclusive growth and empowering the youth. India will be the youngest country in the next decade and youth should be equipped so that they can use their potential to the maximum,” he said.

Rachana Professional of the Year was awarded to eminent architect from Chennai Dr Oscar G Concessao. Rachana NRI Entrepreneur of the Year was awarded to Mark Denis D’Souza from Sharjah (UAE).

Bishop of Mangalore Aloysius Paul D’Souza presided over the programme.