Reflecting on My Journey as District Governor of 3131: The Beginning of a New Era with Historical Landmarks

As I reflect on my journey as District Governor, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible journey we've shared together. My primary focus has always been on instilling in each member the values of "Service Above Self," fostering a sense of camaraderie and inspiring a commitment to making a positive impact in our lives, our communities and beyond.

What a fabulous year it has been! History has been created in almost every avenue of Rotary, whether it be the value of service projects undertaken in 23-24 (180 crores), new Rotaract Clubs being formed, membership growth given to the district by Rotary & Rotaract clubs, RYLAs, innovative projects or district thrust areas being served.

Talking of district thrust areas:

Raised funds in excess of 11 crores for 750 Paediatric Cardiac Surgeries
More than 300 bore wells recharged
400 Anganwadis touched and renovated
18,000 cataract surgeries at the cost of 5.5 crores
13,000 cervical cancer vaccinations - project value 4 crores
2,000+ check dams
121 new Interact clubs, out of which more than 35 are in affluent schools
5,000 societies reached out for creating awareness about the green initiative, etc.

It’s almost like you name the avenue and you will see exemplary work being done in each of them. And more to add:

33 Global grants
21 CSR grants
Initiating the Rotary Peace Centre
Dinner with DG for new members
One million viewers on social media
15 crore worth Rotary Autism Research Centre
Asmita Project: 1 lakh daughters empowered
90+ residential RYLAS
Rotary CSR Awards
Millet Jatra
Innovision
First ever international new generation service exchange group exchange outside India in collaboration with RID 2452 United Arab Emirates
Our work in The Rotary Foundation (TRF) total giving (Annual Fund (APF), CSR, Global Grants, Polio together) has taken us beyond 3 million USD for the first time in the history of RID 3131, making us No 4 district in the world! As for the Annual Fund collection is concerned, we are nearer to our 1 million mark than we have ever been in our history. Not only that, we stand at No. 1 in South Asia for our AF collection.

Our foundation team also hosted the “Black Tie” event in honour of Past RI President and TRF Trustee Chair, Barry Rassin and honored fellow Rotarians for their generous contributions to TRF. He commended Dist. 3131 for its remarkable contributions to the Rotary Foundation and highlighted our district's position as a top contributor in South Asia.

"Magic of Stars" was not just an event but a celebration of the visit of RI President-elect Stephanie Urchick to our district. This gala evening focused a spotlight on those Rotarians who embody the spirit of "Service Above Self." These are the individuals who selflessly dedicate their time, talent and resources to making a positive impact in the world. Visits to Desai Eye Hospital and Rotary Green Expo 2024 were the highlights of her visit to our Dist. 3131.

Along with the above, many new innovative initiatives were undertaken in the district. Rotary Kind Hearts, RID 3131’s very own versatile crowdfunding platform, can be used by all the clubs to raise funds for their projects. Gamification of Rotary knowledge using games like Snakes & Ladders, Monopoly, Tambola, Quiz formats, etc., are now copyrighted with RID 3131.

It is heartening to state the big success of “Parikrama.” During this car rally, we implemented our projects like Asmita for Adivasi girls, Multi-Dist. RYLA for girls of Sainik Schools of Ganpat University along with RC Mehasana. Team Parikrama visited Astha Dialysis Center run by RC Manor for Adivasa Pada and Amul Dairy. My sincere gratitude to Team Parikrama for the wonderful arrangements.

With a heart filled with gratitude, I am pleased to state the resounding success of our Dist. Conference, “Confluence.” As the District Governor, it is both an honor and a privilege to witness the transformative impact of our collective efforts. Our Dist. conference has received high praise from RIPR PRID and World Polio Chair, Michael McGovern from USA. In his feedback, he expressed that our conference stands out as the best he has ever attended among 50+ district conferences that he has attended across the world. Indeed, it is a big compliment and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of my home club, RC Pune Deccan Gymkhana who hosted this wonderful conference.

The Rotary CSR Award, another initiative of our district, garnered high praise from RIPR Michael McGovern. He highlighted the significance of meritorious service in partnership with Rotary made by various companies through corporate social responsibility. As he presented the awards, McGovern emphasized the vital role these companies play in fostering community development and social welfare. This recognition not only celebrates their philanthropic efforts but also underscores the impactful partnerships between the corporate sector and Rotary in driving positive change.

Rotary International’s most coveted award – Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award – has been conferred on me. This is a very prestigious award since Rotary International gives this award to only one Rotarian in the world every year after a thorough scrutiny and multiple video interviews. I dedicate this award to all the Rotarians of Dist. 3131 who made it possible for me to achieve it.

Besides, the district has many Rotary International awardees like Service Above Self to PDG & DRFC Dr. Shailesh Palekar, Meritorious Service to Foundation Rtn. Charu Shrotri, Rotary Excellence Award to Mr. Jadeja and District Secretaries for Avenues of Service Awards.

As a District Governor, my ability to communicate effectively with you has been significantly enhanced by Halo M, the new avatar of GML. This innovative platform, coupled with the editorial expertise of Rtn. Madhur Dolare and the steadfast support of District Secretary Administration Rtn. Vilas Ravande, has culminated in a presentation that is truly unparalleled. I am deeply appreciative of their efforts and look forward to the continued impact of their remarkable work.

Believe me, friends, Rotary has been everywhere in the district, giving service to society and amplifying all seven areas of focus. The increased presence of Rotary clubs in our district on social media platforms is indeed amazing. Through online efforts, our clubs are strengthening their connections with local communities. Kudos to all clubs for their inspiring work in the digital space. This brought the district 1 million footprints across social media handles.

As I conclude my term as Governor for the last time in this GML “Halo M”, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. The work done by my core team, district secretariat, GML team, Assistant Governors, District Avenue Directors, their teams and most importantly, my batch of 2023-24 Presidents and their club teams have taken RID 3131 to greater heights. It is a big honor to witness the dedication, passion and hard work of our Rotarians. Their invaluable time, exceptional talents and generous donations have significantly enriched our community. Thank you for entrusting me with this incredible responsibility and for your unwavering support. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as District Governor of Dist. 3131. You have given me and Vishwas memories we will cherish forever.

Friends, let us continue to serve with passion, lead with vision, and inspire with action. Together, we have created hope! Together, we are Rotary!

Best Wishes,

Rtn. Manjoo Phadke
District Governor 2023-24