RMG – SDB Provinces: The Salesian Province of New Delhi: Jesus the Good Shepherd (INN)

21 March 2025

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Province of New Delhi, canonically established on January 25, 1997, emerged from the Calcutta Province delegation formed in 1992. With its headquarters in New Delhi, the province spans 11 states and 2 union territories in North India, covering 46% of India's geographic area. Within this vast territory, the province operates in 9 states, 2 union territories, and a single presence in West Bengal. Additionally, Salesians from this province serve diocesan missions in the USA under special arrangements.

The province consists of 26 communities, spread across states such as Jharkhand (7), Delhi (6), Uttar Pradesh (3), and others, including Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh. It operates within 16 dioceses of its 45-diocese territory. Despite being located in a multi-religious region with only 0.4% Catholics (approximately 2 million), the Chhotanagpur (Greater Jharkhand) region is rich in vocations. The province celebrated its silver jubilee in 2022.

Mission and Beneficiaries

The mission of the province focuses on serving marginalized youth and communities through education, evangelization, and social outreach. Beneficiaries include:

Youth and students: Over 19,473 students in schools, 708 in colleges, and 3,054 in technical institutes benefit from Salesian initiatives.
Marginalized groups: Dalits, tribals, minorities, and economically disadvantaged families are empowered through various projects.
Social work sector: The largest group of beneficiaries includes 202,764 individuals such as refugees, migrants, and self-help group (SHG) members.
Parishioners: Around 65,009 individuals annually benefit from parish services.

In total, the province reaches over 325,947 people each year.

Key Initiatives and Ministries

The province's ministries address education, social welfare, and spiritual development, particularly for the poor and vulnerable. These efforts are supported by educational institutions, orphanages, social outreach programs, and specialized initiatives. Below are its most prominent projects:

1. Evangelization and Catechesis

The province focuses on spreading the Good News and systematic catechesis in rural areas. Key initiatives include:

Building and renovating village chapels, parish churches, and grottos.
Training catechists and strengthening faith among rural populations.
Providing basic amenities like housing, toilets, and medical care.

2. Educational Institutions

Schools, vocational training centers, and technical institutes are pivotal in serving tribal and marginalized communities in rural areas. These institutions aim to foster meaningful employment, self-reliance, and responsible citizenship among youth.

3. Orphanages

The Salesian-run orphanage, Ashalayam (House of Hope), provides holistic care for orphaned and abandoned children by:

Offering shelter, food, healthcare, and education.
Ensuring emotional, psychological, and physical growth.
Creating a nurturing environment for a sense of belonging and security.

4. Social Outreach

The province plays an active role in supporting refugees, migrants, and impoverished communities through collaborations with organizations like UNHCR. Social outreach programs focus on:

Providing emergency aid (food, shelter, and healthcare).
Offering sustainable livelihoods through vocational training and microfinance.
Advocating for marginalized communities' rights and dignity.
Promoting social cohesion and community-building efforts.

5. Youth at Risk (YaR) Programs

These initiatives protect vulnerable youth at risk of exploitation or neglect. They provide:

Safe spaces, counseling, and guidance for personal growth. Education, life skills training, and vocational opportunities. Advocacy for young people's rights and protection.

6. Brick Kiln Program

This unique initiative based in Jhajjar addresses the needs of underprivileged children, especially those working in the brick industry. It focuses on:

Education, healthcare, and emotional well-being.
Life skills training to break cycles of poverty and exploitation.
Individualized attention to empower children for a brighter future.

7. DBARK (Don Bosco Animation and Research Kendra)

DBARK offers programs for youth development, educators, parents, and professionals. Key activities include youth animation, leadership programs, staff development, digital ministry, and community-building initiatives. Inspired by Fr. Joe Arimppor’s vision, these activities foster holistic growth and leadership among participants.

8. Sumedha Centre

Sumedha Centre, located in Punjab, specializes in psycho-spiritual healing and renewal. Programs cater to religious and lay leaders, offering professional psychological and spiritual support. Despite bureaucratic delays in constructing its own facility, the center continues to be a vital resource for Catholic leaders across India.

Salesian Family Members

The province is supported by a diverse Salesian Family, including the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), Salesian Co-operators, ADMA, MSMHC, SMI, and other affiliated groups. Past pupils, teachers, parents, and volunteers also contribute to the mission, sharing the Salesian spirit of service and compassion.

Conclusion

The Salesian Province of New Delhi, under the guidance of Jesus the Good Shepherd, has profoundly impacted the lives of countless individuals across North India. Rooted in the legacy of St. John Bosco, the province continues to empower marginalized communities through education, vocational training, and social outreach. By fostering compassion, justice, and solidarity, it remains a beacon of hope for vulnerable communities.

As the province grows, its unwavering commitment to serving the poor and marginalized ensures that it will continue to inspire and uplift countless individuals, creating a brighter future for the people of North India.

To learn more about INN, a video is available on ANSChannel.