Rotary’s legacy of service & impact
We Rotarians are excellent tenants of this planet as we truly live up to the motto Service above Self. Together, let us continue to be the architects of hope, champions of compassion and pioneers of change. Through thoughtful planning and steadfast commitment, we will not only serve to change lives but create a brighter, more equitable future for generations to come,” said PRIP Shekhar Mehta, addressing the Kochi Rotary Institute.
He highlighted how well-planned humanitarian projects have transformed communities across India. The global fight to end polio exemplifies how a well-defined programme, coupled with strategy, execution and assessment, can achieve extraordinary results. Rotary’s literacy initiatives are also another example of this approach.
“Millions of students in grades 1–12 across India are using our audiovisual content, thanks to Rotary’s contributions to the GoI’s NCERT programme. Our adult literacy project is another milestone, empowering thousands of women and men with dignity, independence and freedom that literacy brings.” The Happy Schools initiative is transforming schools into smart, vibrant learning environments for students, he said.
In healthcare, Rotary’s impact is equally profound. From installing dialysis centres nationwide and performing paediatric heart surgeries to supporting health programmes in Nepal and cervical cancer awareness programmes in Sri Lanka, Rotary’s large-scale projects continue to transform communities. “Our passion and purpose are our strength,” said Mehta.
He was delighted that RC Delhi Premier had secured the Programs of Scale grant for a water project. “The far-reaching impact of such initiatives demonstrates the potential of well-funded, large-scale projects. I urge the trustees to consider expanding this model to two grants of scale per year, and eventually one for each area of focus.”
Taking note of the contributions of Rotarians from India zones to TRF, he remarked, “We give generously each year, and we also deploy these funds effectively in our local communities, creating a cycle of trust, growth and impact.”
On membership growth, he acknowledged India’s role as the “North Star” of Rotary’s expansion. “This solid growth, coupled with exceptional service and contributions, positions our zones as a powerhouse within the organisation. As a 120-year-old organisation, our legacy is incredible, but our potential is even greater,” he added.
To enhance the impact, he suggested district leaders to focus on strategic, multi-year projects under each area of focus; offer a “menu of service” to guide clubs toward scalable and sustainable initiatives; and ensure clear implementation plans and impact assessment for every project.
Mehta said that a proposal to host the RI convention in Delhi for 2029, 2031 or 2032 has been submitted to the Board. “A convention in Delhi will be a perfect acknowledgment of the incredible work being done in India. Let’s unite and work together to make this dream a reality,” he said.
PRID C Basker who anchored this session said, “Service is not just a project; it’s a way of life where the giver gains as much as the receiver. Even seemingly simple acts, like supporting a struggling student financially, advocating for marginalised communities or offering a listening ear, carry immense value. All it takes is willingness to serve.”
