TRF Trustee
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Rotary’s journey began with the step and dream of one individual, Paul Harris, with a simple plan to promote friendship and a spirit of mutual cooperation — two ingredients essential for peace. The Symbiosis educational institution began with the dream of one individual — Dr S B Mujumdar with the vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — an important concept for peace.
On January 26, 2026, these two visions and journeys seamlessly came together when the first Rotary Peace Center in India, and indeed in South Asia, was inaugurated at the Symbiosis International University (SIU) in Pune. This is a momentous occasion for both organisations. It reflects the shared values of Symbiosis and Rotary — of integrity, quality education, cross-cultural bonding, and understanding and developing global competencies.
With a well thought-out selection process, including Expression of Interest from 17 institutions in six Asian countries, to rigorous evaluation criteria including 20 indicators and site visits, the selection of SIU is a matter of pride, prestige and joy for Rotary in India. The fact that Rotarians from 22 districts were present at the inauguration speaks greatly about the commitment of Rotary and Rotarians in India to this peace centre. Compliments and thanks to the two host districts — 3131 and 3141, and the team who guided and helped in the application process, to Symbiosis and its committed leadership, and to the Rotary staff, for making this happen.
The economic impact of violence on the global economy in 2024 was estimated to be $19.97 trillion or $2,455 per person. This is a grave reality and a greatly concerning issue. Rather than react to violence, we in Rotary believe in creating conditions conducive to peace — focusing on healthcare, water, sanitation, literacy, economic development and a holistic approach to what we call ‘Positive Peace’. Rotary’s peace centres and Peace Scholars programme are an important step in our work for peace. By supporting emerging leaders and empowering them in conflict resolution and sustainable development, Rotary creates impact at the local and global level.
To paraphrase Arch Klumph: ‘If we build temples, churches and mosques they will crumble into ruins, if we erect monuments time will deface them; but if we work with minds of men and women and imbue in them a spirit of compassion, integrity, cooperation and service, we are doing something that will endure as long as this civilisation exists.’ Rotary’s peacebuilding efforts are aimed at just that — transforming mindsets and unleashing the potential within each individual — to make a difference in our world.
The new peace centre represents an opportunity to aspiring young men and women to become peace scholars. But it also represents an opportunity to have a more peaceful, equitable, compassionate world in India and in Asia. Amen to that. Enjoy Rotary.
Bharat Pandya
TRF Trustee