Mariam Niketan Convent, Belvai, Diocese of Mangalore - Since April 8, 1970

The RNDMs in India have always recognized the importance of vocation recruitment and so in 1970, the provincial council felt that the time had come to open a house in a more Catholic area to recruit vocations. This led to them approaching Bishop Basil D'Souza of the Diocese of Mangalore about the possibility of a house in his diocese. He was happy to have an international congregation come to the diocese but wanted the RNDMs to do more than simply recruitment work. The Sisters were happy to follow his suggestion.

Belvai, a small village forty-five kilometers from Mangalore, had no church within a radius of eight kilometers, which meant that Catholics had to walk miles to attend Sunday Mass. Because of this and at the request of the Catholics of Belvai and the surrounding villages, the parish priest, Father Joe Shenoy of Alankar, bought a plot of land on which a school, a church, and a parish house could eventually be built. The Sisters began living in temporary accommodation on 8 April 1970. Mass was celebrated every Sunday in very simple surroundings. Children who were attending the government school received catechetical instruction from the Sisters who were also responsible for the Children of Mary Sodality.

Eventually, the Sisters bought a property, and after it was suitably renovated, the Sisters moved in and continued their pastoral and educational ministries in the area. Before long young women from the area were asking about coming to the novitiate.

The Sisters were actively involved in the parish in several ways. They provided catechetical instruction for children attending government schools, Sunday school classes, some basic health care, mother and child health programs, visited Christian and non-Christian families, and fostered vocations to religious life.

Health work was recognized as an urgent need by the people and by the Sisters, and so in 1977, Mary Anselma (Teresa Madathiparambil), a qualified nurse, opened the dispensary. However, after some years it was realized that the dispensary was no longer a priority, given the growing number of private clinics and hospitals in the area. The closure of the dispensary meant that the building could be converted to accommodate nursery classes, which would generate some income.

Education has been a central aspect of RNDM's mission. They have established schools, colleges, and other educational institutions globally, contributing to the empowerment of individuals through knowledge and skills.

In Belvai, the need for education was likely driven by the aspiration to uplift communities, promote literacy, and foster holistic development. Wholeness in education, according to RNDM principles, emphasizes not only academic knowledge but also the development of moral, spiritual, and social aspects, aiming to nurture well-rounded individuals.

The Charism of RNDM reflects their distinctive spirit and mission. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, the congregation focuses on love, compassion, and service, aiming to make God's love visible in the world through various ministries, including education.

Their commitment to life involves embracing a spiritual journey, communal living, and serving those in need, embodying the core values of the congregation. The combination of education and the charism of RNDM reflects a holistic approach to empowering individuals and communities.

There has been remarkable growth in their school. Transforming from a modest beginning with seven children in 2017 to now having 335 students up to class 7 is a testament to the dedication and efforts of the school community. The school has become a well-known and respected institution in the area, demonstrating its positive impact on education.

This growth not only reflects the increasing trust and support from the community but also highlights the school's commitment to providing quality education. Such progress is a source of pride and signifies the positive influence the school has on the educational landscape of our locality. Let this excellent work in nurturing and shaping the academic journey of their students be for the Glory of God.