
Mangaluru, Feb 24, 2026: The 77th birthday of ‘Sahakara Ratna’ Dr M N Rajendra Kumar was celebrated with enthusiasm at the auditorium of the South Canara District Central Co-operative Bank (SCDCC Bank) on February 24. The occasion featured a grand felicitation ceremony and the distribution of welfare assistance to 77 deserving beneficiaries, symbolically marking his 77 years and honouring his long-standing service to the cooperative sector.
The event was inaugurated by Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U. T. Khader, who praised Dr Rajendra Kumar’s integrity and committed leadership. He said the consistent growth and strength of the institution were rooted in honesty, unity, and collective cooperation. He noted that under Dr Rajendra Kumar’s stewardship, cooperative institutions and communities came together with trust and mutual understanding, strengthening the foundation and expansion of the bank.
Former Chief Minister M. Veerappa Moily delivered the felicitation address and lauded Dr Rajendra Kumar’s visionary leadership and lifelong dedication. He remarked that building and sustaining a strong institution demands determination, clarity, and perseverance. Despite numerous challenges, Dr Rajendra Kumar successfully expanded the organisation’s reach and earned recognition across Karnataka and at the national level. He described his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a respected cooperative leader as a model of democratic leadership and public service.
Mangaluru South MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath presided over the function and appreciated Dr Rajendra Kumar’s significant contributions to the cooperative and banking sectors. He highlighted that steering a financial institution during challenging times requires responsibility and vision. He credited Dr Rajendra Kumar with strengthening the bank, safeguarding public funds, and building public trust. His leadership, he said, has ensured stability and progress for both the institution and society.
Responding to the felicitation, Dr M N Rajendra Kumar expressed gratitude to leaders, well-wishers, and supporters for their continued encouragement. He attributed the bank’s steady growth to collective effort, public support, and blessings. Emphasising the role of cooperative banks, he said that unlike commercial banks focused primarily on profit, cooperative institutions are committed to serving society at the grassroots level. He noted that the bank has expanded its branch network to rural areas to enhance accessibility and deliver efficient banking services to all sections of society. Reaffirming its social commitment, he assured continued support for poor and deserving individuals through welfare initiatives and inclusive banking services.
The programme was attended by prominent figures from the cooperative sector, public representatives, dignitaries, and members of the public, making the celebration a grand and memorable occasion.