Foundation and Inauguration 

On 20th December 2011, Rev. Fr. Pascual Chavez, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, announced the creation of the new Salesian Province of Silchar, dedicated to Blessed John Paul II as its Patron. This province was bifurcated from the Province of Guwahati and became the 11th Salesian Province in India. The new province encompasses the Salesian activities in the Archdiocese of Shillong, and the dioceses of Nongstoin, Jowai, Aizawl, and Agartala, with an initial total of 35 centers. Rev. Fr. George Maliekal was appointed as the first Provincial of this new province. 

The Province of Blessed John Paul II, with its headquarters in Silchar (INS), was officially inaugurated on 24th May 2012, with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Archbishop Dominic Jala. Other bishops of the region, major superiors, and numerous confreres, priests, religious, and sisters graced the occasion. Representing the Rector Major, Rev. Fr. Maria Arokiam Kanaga, the Regional Councillor for South Asia, was also present. 

Fr. George Maliekal was formally installed as the first Provincial of the new province, with Fr. Paul Olphindro Lyngkot as Vice Provincial and Fr. Cyril Tirkey as Economer. The provincial administration began operating immediately from the renovated facilities of the Don Bosco Centre, Silchar. 

Relocation of the Provincial House 

The First Provincial Chapter (PC) of the INS province, held from 6–10 May 2013 at the Pastoral Centre, Shillong, focused on the theme of GC27, “Witness to the Radical Approach of the Gospel,” and prepared the province’s contributions for the General Chapter. It also deliberated on provincial concerns and formulated an action plan for the next three years. 

During the chapter, a proposal to transfer the Provincial House from Silchar to Shillong was discussed. On 15th June 2013, the Provincial Council officially requested permission for the transfer from the Rector Major, Rev. Fr. Pascual Chavez. On 19th June 2013, the Rector Major granted the request, and the Provincial House was relocated to Mathias Institute, Mawlai, Shillong, on 2nd September 2013. 

Growth and Development 

The province has flourished over the years, completing 13 years of existence (2012–2025). Fr. George Maliekal served as the first Provincial, succeeded by Fr. Paul O. Lyngkot, and currently, Fr. John Zosiama leads the province as its third Provincial. 

The province celebrated the Centenary Year of the Salesian Charism in Northeast India (1922–2022), marking 100 years since the arrival of the Salesians in the region. It was a year of gratitude and reflection, fostering a closer connection with Don Bosco and his mission. 

As the province embarks on its Fourth Provincial Chapter, there is a renewed commitment to the Salesian Charism and Mission entrusted by God, the Church, and the Congregation. 

Territorial Boundaries 

The Salesian Province of Shillong covers the following regions: 

Khasi-Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, 

States of Mizoram and Tripura, 

Barak Valley of Assam. 

Statistics of the Province 

As of March 2025, the Salesian Province of Shillong includes: 

Total Members: 311  

Priests: 156 

Brothers: 26 

Clerics: 129 

Novices: 32 

Confreres for Ad Gentes Mission: 3 

Total Houses: 44  

Canonically Erected: 27 houses 

Non-Canonically Erected: 17 houses 

Institutions and Outreach 

The province oversees a wide range of institutions and activities. These include 25 parishes and five formation houses such as Savio Juniorate, Don Bosco Nonglakhiat, Bosco Home Herma, Sunnyside, and SHTC. The province also runs two colleges—St. Anthony’s College in Shillong and Don Bosco College in Byndihati—and five technical schools, including Don Bosco Technical School in Shillong and Bosco Pnar in Jowai. Additionally, there are ten skill training centers, two media centers, and 29 main schools, along with numerous village schools. Collectively, these institutions reach out to approximately 53,670 students annually, making a significant impact on education and evangelization in the region. 

Challenges of the Province 

The Salesian Province of Shillong faces several challenges that need to be addressed for the mission to flourish further. Youth ministry remains underdeveloped in many houses, limiting its potential to reach and engage young people effectively. There is also a pressing need to identify, train, and adequately compensate catechists who can dedicate themselves fully to animating communities. While Salesian pedagogy and faith formation are core aspects of the mission, ensuring their consistent implementation across various settings remains a challenge. Furthermore, sustaining the continuity of several noble initiatives that have been started in the province poses an ongoing difficulty. 

Measures for Improvement 

To overcome these challenges, the province is taking steps to strengthen all four dimensions of youth ministry: Education to Faith, Social Experience, Education & Culture, and Vocational Discernment. Greater attention will be given to the “free youth” in the neighborhoods, with plans to establish tutorial colleges, youth hostels, and counseling services to support young adults. Additionally, the province recognizes the importance of training lay staff in Salesian youth activities and involving them more meaningfully in the mission. 

Collaboration with religious congregations such as FMAs, MSMHCs, and VSDBs, as well as Salesian Cooperators, will be intensified to support youth programs. The province also aims to encourage young Catholics to participate actively in politics and civil services by preparing them for government competitive exams. Plans are in place to establish more youth centers and sports academies to attract and develop young talent. Partnerships with national and international organizations like Scouts, Rotary, and Red Cross will also be explored to engage the youth meaningfully and provide them with opportunities for growth and service. 

The Salesian Province of St. John Paul II, Shillong, strives to be  a shining example of Don Bosco's vision in action. Rooted in the Salesian Charism, the province has made significant strides in evangelization, education, and social development, positively impacting the lives of thousands of young people and communities. While challenges remain, the province’s strengths and commitment to its mission are unwavering. With a renewed focus on youth ministry, collaboration, and innovation, the province is well-positioned to continue its transformative work in Northeast India for years to come. 

• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
• Title Title
•  

Tweet