For the past decade, the Rotary Club of Pune Sinhagad Road has been deeply committed to the holistic development of the village of Hotale in taluka Mulashi, District Pune. Through various initiatives focused on women empowerment, youth training, cow donation, sewing machines distribution, school building improvements and establishment of a computer lab, the club has positively impacted the lives of the villagers.
Rtn. Suresh Narke, a stalwart Rotarian with over 25 years of service at R C Pune Sinhagad Road, was a pioneer of this transformative village adoption project. His recent passing prompted the club to pay tribute to his legacy. In a heartfelt gesture, the club members decided to construct a memorial gate at the Hotale school in his honor.
On 29th January 2024, the memorial gate was officially donated to the village, with all Rotary members, including President Lata, Secretary Abhay Devre, Donor Abhay Maydeo and Rtn. Ashok Bhandari, attending the ceremony. Rtn. Mrs. Ushatai Narke, wife of the late Rtn. Suresh Narke, was also present to witness the tribute to her husband's memory.
The village of Hotale has already made significant strides in its development journey, with the establishment of an RCC (Rural Community Center) being a testament to the progress made.
This touching tribute to Rtn. Suresh Narke's memory was covered by Sakal, Pune District, in their issue dated 2nd February 2024, highlighting the enduring impact of Rotary's service in the community.