FROM left, partly hidden, are Pandit Suresh Sugrim, his brother Dr. Ramesh Sugrim, Minister Frank Anthony, recipient of the bicycle Rajendra Brijnarine and his mother. In background is Magistrate Chandra Sohan.

The handing over, at Reliance Vedic Mandir, East Canje, was also witnessed by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, who was in the ‘Ancient County’ on other official business.

Speaking briefly, at the function chaired by magistrate Chandra Sohan, the minister said each religion has its own constituency which shares various values that transcend all races.
However, for a religious body to play a larger role that will go beyond beliefs and help change lives, the community should become the target and benefit from skills training, through which empowerment and enhancement the goal could be realised, Anthony said.
He commended the United States based donor for the gesture and noted that the benefactor was not bound to give anything. President of the NJAS, Pandit Suresh Sugrim said the mission does not discriminate and transcends all racial boundaries.
He said the gifts were purchased through fund-raising activities in an effort to empower women in the East Canje area.