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The Young Christian Students’ Movement (YCS), a student movement is a unit of Youth Council of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, recently completed its half centenary (1966-2016). YCS roots were found in India in 1950. In 1961 the first contact with YCS was with the visit of an YCS leader from Germany and an extension worker from Sri Lanka. During 1960-1962 YCS units were formed in Chennai and Bangalore through the help of Ms Betty King, an YCW extension worker from Australia. Some student groups were attempting to build up their objectives and Sr. Jeanne Devos ICM inspired the student groups of Madras (Chennai) and Bangalore to communicate with each other in 1966. Thus YCS became official India Movement. Since then, it has taken deep roots in different parts of India. Slowly YCS inspired the students of other faiths and paved the way for the formation of YSM in 1970.

Currently, the Movement has over 1.5 lakh student members and more than 2000 dedicated Animators, youth workers spread out in 14 regions. The movement has formed active and dynamic church leaders, social workers and liberators who are involved in the process of socio-economic-political-spiritual welfare of the people all over the country.

Celebration of the Golden Jubilee on 16th Jan 2016:
 
YCS India celebrated the Golden Jubilee with much zeal and enthusiasm. The celebrations started with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Most Rev. Anil Couto, Archbishop of Delhi and concelebrated by other priests from Delhi and other parts of the Country. YCS students from different schools and parishes were present at this occasion. During his homily, Archbishop congratulated every member of YCS and asked them to become the bearers of light to bring change in the society. He also gave the example of Samuel from the Old Testament and asked the students to come forward to work for the Lord.

Before the Eucharist all the NEXCO’s shared their experiences.  After the Holy Eucharist there was stage programme organized by the host diocese. YCS units organized a short cultural programme. Mr. Jimmy Pdang, President of the movemet welcomed the guests. Ms. Sharon, (Secretary) read out the report. Messages’ of some prominent persons were read out on this occasion. Archbishop of Delhi gave a message and released the book on fifty testimonies by the YCS members and gave the first copy to Fr. Charles Menezes, IYCS Chaplain. In his message he said, “YCS movement itself stands out in the service of humanity and that is the greatest testimony”. Archbishop was felicitated by the National Chaplain Fr. Chetan Machado. Thereafter Fr. Charles Menezes, International Chaplain was felicitated. He wished the YCS Movement success and congratulated every member. All the Regional Directors, Diocesan Directors, former coordinators were also felicitated on this occasion. Local units of YCS put up a meaningful and colorful cultural show. Mr. Sam proposed vote of thanks and Fr. Chetan thanked everyone who helped to make this event successful. After the YCS Anthem, sumptuous meal was served to all. NEXCO’s compeered the programme and Ms. Aparna and Mr. Gilbert coordinated along with ICYM Okhla parish.