(ANS – Mangalore) – In a historic event for the entire Salesian Province of Panjim India (INP), on 8 April 2026 in Mangalore, 19 candidates made their promises as Salesian Cooperators during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Devakrupa Convent in Attavar. The ceremony, presided over by the  INP Vice-Provincial, Fr Banzelão Texiera, marked the first time a group of Salesian Cooperators had been established in the diocese. Reflecting on the role of Salesian Cooperators within the Salesian Family, Fr Texiera noted that they are “members who share Don Bosco’s charism and mission for young people and the poor”. He then drew attention to Mamma Margaret, describing her as Don Bosco’s first “cooperator”, whose quiet service and faith shaped the early days of the Salesian work. The vows were received in the presence of Shirley Fernandes, coordinator of the Salesian Cooperators in Panjim, and Theresa Barreto Cruz, the formator who accompanied the group on their formation journey. With these promises the new Salesian Cooperators thus become part of the wider Salesian Family, forming a formally constituted group, united in collaborating on the educational and pastoral mission in favour of young people.