On the 20th of October, Rotary Club of Pune Pride hosted a remarkable District Service Project  Seminar. The event was executed with precision and grace, largely attributed to the impeccable leadership of President Rtn. Radha Gokhale and the eloquent stewardship of the Master of Ceremony AG Rtn.Sanjyot Malpani. It was something special that Service Project Seminar and  Public Image Seminar were jointly hosted by RC Pune Pride and RC Pune Far East.On show was the seamless synchronization between the two clubs and brought to light the teamwork of both the clubs.The club presidents and the conveners worked tirelessly and were totally involved in the execution of the theme “EXTRA COVER”

The seminar's highlight was an illuminating interview conducted by PP Rtn. Ujwal Kele, featuring two of Pune city's most esteemed personalities. Smt Shailaja Deshpande, founder of the NGO "Jivit Nadi," shared insights into her tireless efforts to rejuvenate and protect the city's rivers. Her dedication to environmental conservation struck a chord with the audience, inspiring many to take up the cause.

Her statement “The river does not run through the city, the city has been established on the banks of the river” left a lasting impact on the audience. She said that an average age of a river is 10 Million years and it has been the life-line of numerous symbiotic eco-systems along it’s was for millions of years, but the modern cities are destroying the very foundation of these rivers.

In an equally captivating segment, Dr. Sonawane, affectionately known as the "Beggars Doctor," recounted his incredible journey of providing medical care to the homeless and beggars on the streets of Pune. His unwavering commitment to offering check-ups, medical advice, and free medicines to the most vulnerable members of society was both humbling and motivating.

His remarkable journey from a student who hated studies to graduating in medicine, from a well paying job to total dedication to social work and from a family of four to an extended family of 1200 persons is astounding. He not only ensures their physical health but also persuades many to become self-reliant through jobs or self-employment. It was amazing to know both these towering personalities of Pune city.

The seminar also gave a platform to various district avenues to showcase their achievements. All avenues were ably represented & led by District teams. Peace and conflict prevention/resolution was led by Rtn. Gauri Shikarpur, Disease prevention and treatment led by Rtn. Dr. Kiran Purohit, Maternal and child health led by Rtn. Shobha Nahar, Basic education and literacy led by Rtn. Santosh Pardeshi, Economic and community development led by Rtn. Vijay Kalbhor and last but not the least the Environment led by Rtn. Vasantrao Malunjkar.

Rtn. Subodh Malpani emphasised the importance of Rotary Community Corps (RCC).  These avenues included the District Governors thrust areas (what he likes to call as the “Playing Eleven”) and Rotary International's areas of focus. The District Governor PP Rtn. Shital Shah gave words of encouragement to all and also set out the targets for the rest of the Rotary year 2024-25.

This seminar not only showcased the remarkable achievements of these individuals but also underscored the Rotary Club's on-going commitment to community service and excellence. The event was a testament to the power of collective action and the impact of compassionate leadership. Congratulations to all involved in making this seminar a resounding success!

Rtn.Shailesh Sirsikar

Rotary Club of Pune Pride