pranav

The COVID Task Force for India would be extremely interested in collaborating with Government of India. We would be grateful if you would facilitate a connection. 

Thank you for your mail and your kind comments about my being named to the International COVID Task Force. I look forward to working with you on this challenging task.

For your information, PRIP Raja Saboo, Deepak Kapur and myself are regular invitees to the Regional meetings of the WHO which are convened to discuss the strategies for combating COVID in the region and always have a Government of India representative to talk about COVAX and other issues.

Deepak and I have recently been in touch with NITI Aayog (which has replaced the erstwhile Indian Planning Commission) and they have expressed a lot of interest in joining hands with Rotary to promote COVID immunization in India. Of course, the bureaucratic wheels grind slowly, and this may take some time to materialize.

The NITI Aayog is mindful of the following facts that we brought to their attention :

There is a massive role that humanitarian organizations play in improving the vaccination coverage. In the past, organizations such as Rotary, together with WHO and UNICEF have played a stellar role in polio elimination across South East Asia region. Central and state governments must consider leveraging those capabilities and infrastructure created over decades to improve vaccination coverage in difficult-to-reach areas.  

Currently, Rotary clubs in states like Tamil Nadu , Kerala , Haryana, Gujarat, Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur are helping local authorities in setting up centres for immunization, thereby providing preventive care. The other aspect is the providing palliative care for those who have suffered or are suffering from COVID-19, by setting up oxygen plants, oxygen concentrator banks and arranging for pro-bono doctors to offer free-of-cost consultation.

Given the success of Rotary and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI’s) polio program to date, incidences of polio have plummeted by more than 99.9 percent globally, and only Pakistan and Afghanistan remain endemic. Rotary has been able to draw insights from these efforts and apply them to improving public health at large. In fact, Rotary is already transitioning its extensive polio eradication knowledge and assets in India to support the government of India’s public health goals, such as measles and rubella elimination, and now, to support the ongoing fight against COVID-19. 

Among many assets, we are leveraging the information, education, and communication framework from India’s fight against polio, which dictates that information must be consistent, simple, and delivered on a continual basis in multiple languages, to educate citizens on ways to prevent COVID-19. This can be applied, especially in the context of getting more people from rural areas registered on “Co-Win” (India’s digital platform for registering for vaccination) as well as countering vaccine hesitancy. People in the rural areas need to be guided on how they can register themselves on the Co-WIN platform and educated on vaccine safety and efficacy.  

Even as the government’s vaccination guidelines have been formed keeping in mind beneficiaries from all kinds of background, this issue of access disparity has been prominent for a while now. There are provisions of walk-ins and on-site registration along with app registration for those who might not have access to digital device or are unable to register themselves on the Co-Win platform. The Government along with civil society players such as Rotary are also helping to bridge this gap and provide access to all. The responsibility also lies on the privileged section who has a huge role to play in helping the ones in last mile and mitigating this issue of digital divide. So far, the rural vaccination coverage has been promising and continuous effort is being made to fuel country’s aggressive vaccination drive against COVID-19. 

India’s challenges in accelerating its immunization drive are considerable. The major challenge being the huge population and along with it, the economic repercussions of the disease itself.

The consequent lockdowns and the impact they have caused must be factored in. Operational issues such as crowd management can pose significant challenges for the care providers administering the vaccine. Besides, educating all beneficiaries regarding the efficacy and safety of the vaccines is also critical.  

Dear District Governor

Join the Mission, Speed up Vaccination

An unprecedented combination of political will, collaboration from Rotary and inflow of funds from philanthropists has enabled the vaccination programme against Covid in India to reach the 38-crore (380 million) mark till now. However, only in few States over 2 crore people have been vaccinated and lot more work is to be done by every one of us in eradicating Covid from India. 

A report which has been published in one of the national newspapers today shows that the vaccination rate has slowed down in July 2021 compared to earlier month and only about eight percent of the country’s population has been fully vaccinated.

RI has also formed an International Committee for Covid Task Force and it is clear that during the next few years the fight against Covid will take the centre stage in our activities. 

It has been decided by the Rotary India’s Covid Task Force that at the end of this Rotary year in 2022, three Rotary District Governors in India, who have played a major role by promoting the vaccination drive and motivating the clubs to implement relevant projects including creating Covid-related healthcare infrastructure, will be selected and suitably recognised.

We had requested you to nominate one Rotarian as the District Co-ordinator for the Covid eradication programme in your district. Three District Co-ordinators from all over India, who have done exemplary work in promoting vaccination and other related projects, will be selected and recognised at the end of the Rotary year 2022. Please send me the name and email address of the District Co-ordinator of your district before July 21st  2021.

Kindly form a District Covid Vaccination Promotion Committee with dynamic Rotarians and appoint one person as the Chairman. Three Chairman of the Vaccination Committee from all over India will be selected based on their achievements at the end of the Rotary year in 2022 and recognised. Please send me the name and email address of the Chairman of the newly formed Covid Vaccination Promotion Committee to me before July 21st  2021.

In addition, three Rotary clubs which have promoted vaccination in a big way and also implemented Covid related healthcare projects, will be selected and recognised at the end of the Rotary year 2022. Spread this message to all the clubs in your district and this is our time to prevent any more waves of Covid. 

Dear Rotary Leaders, 

Add Firepower to Vaccination Drive

Vaccination against Covid 19 hit a record pace in June 2021 and reached a peak of 6.44 million on June 26, 2021. We can say that in nearly all States in India, the advocacy for the vaccination programme provided by Rotary Clubs played a significant role in achieving the higher rates of immunisation. The States of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra showed considerable increase in vaccination. But only 6.3% of the country’s population has been fully vaccinated and over 29% have received at least one dose as of June 30, 2021. To vaccinate all adults by December 31, 2021 it is estimated that 8.4 million doses must be administered daily on an average from today.

I compliment the Rotary Clubs for taking the task of organizing camps for vaccination with enthusiasm and helping the Government to fight this pandemic. It is clear that only vaccination can help to fight Covid 19 immediately and reduce the number of cases all over the country. The areas which are relaxing lockdown regulations are reporting good vaccination coverage and so Rotarians should double their efforts now to prevent any other wave that is threatening us. I read that in a State in South India, tribal people climbed trees to avoid being vaccinated when the health workers reached their village in the forests! I am sure that they will have to come down sometime soon, but the point is that we have to find out why this vaccine hesitancy is still prevalent among people. It is in such cases that Rotary Clubs should put extra efforts, mobilse the opinion leaders of such communities and talk to them about the benefits of being vaccinated. Like in Polio eradication, I would like to draw a parallel that no one is safe until Covid is eradicated from our country. 

Dear Rotary Leaders Of Tomorrow

Fast Forward

The years that went by…Oh! We all have felt that time must fly and better days must come soon. We spent a major part of the last two years without seeing our friends and relatives. Some of them have left us and we must live with only memories of our friendship. As a new Rotary year is about to dawn on July 1, we know this: Rotary – If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.

Did we all feel weak fighting this Covid 19 virus? Probably initially. But we challenged ourselves. We knew that weakness of attitude becomes weakness of character.  Rotarians did not buckle down but did splendid service saving human lives. Bringing in oxygen concentrators, oxygen plants, beds, hospital equipment, medicines from abroad and organizing vaccination camps were some of the rapid actions taken by Rotary Clubs in India. The Governments of various States took our help to promote vaccination and remove hesitancy among the people. These are great achievements by any standards when you consider that Rotarians risked their lives and became ‘front-line volunteers’ to help the community.

As you get ready to lead Rotary in your District during 2021-2022, please remember that what keeps Rotary alive is the awareness amongst the existing members that we can do good and we are doing good. Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go. We have shown that nothing can stop us when we stand united.

Rotary is all about genuinely reaching out to people all over the world. Service is linked to enlightenment. It is like the blossoming of a flower. Enlightenment can happen quickly and the when people realise that the purpose of existence is to serve, they will stay in Rotary and strengthen the movement. Rotarians must also know that being in Rotary is not just about how much they serve, but how much love they put into serving. Rotary and The Rotary Foundation are not destinations, but doorways to reach and serve the entire humanity.

I believe that if we consciously hold on to the programmes of The Rotary Foundation and the areas of focus, it can alter the way Rotarians and other donors think, feel and experience life. This will develop Rotary in your area to be favoured organisation when people in the community want to donate or look for support during times like these. Focus on the process of achieving the goals set by our RI President for the year 2021-2022 and the results will follow. Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering, “It will be happier.”

The ultimate measure of a Rotarian leader such as yourself, is not where they stand in moments of comfort and convenience, but where they stand at times of challenge. You are here to serve and to change lives. As I said earlier, “If Rotary doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.”

Lockdown, loss of jobs and life, and unimaginable turmoil – it has been over a year since the COVID-19 pandemic struck us and the losses just keep on mounting. This has been one of the darkest phases that mankind has faced in decades, at a global level. While the long night continues to rage on, COVID warriors who relentlessly continue to fight are the ushers of a new dawn, offering a ray of hope in some of the darkest moments.

Ever since the pandemic hit last year, tapping into decades of experience in bringing polio to the brink of eradication, Rotary members worldwide have been helping health authorities communicate lifesaving information about COVID-19 and vaccination, combatting misinformation, supporting fair and equal access to vaccines, and curbing the spread of the virus by donating protective gear and other supplies to clinics and hospitals under strain.

In India, joining the medical fraternity, the government and other civil society partners in the fight against covid, are Rotary’s over 1.6 lakh volunteers across India who – with a resolution to offer Service above Self – have been standing tall, leading countless initiatives all over the country.

From offering cooked meals, dry rations, PPE kits, face masks, and other essential items to communities during the first wave, to assisting respective state governments in their vaccination drives, providing medical assistance during rising hospitalizations, equipment such as oxygen concentrators, setting up oxygen plants during the second wave– Rotary members spread across 4000 clubs in India have consistently participated in any and every activity to offer a helping hand to those in need in their communities across the country.
Currently, Rotary clubs continue to amplify their activities, responding to evolving challenges and issues with time, investing in diverse projects during the pandemic. Led by the Rotary India COVID Task Force, members continue to innovate basis the local community needs, and there still is no telling where the next indigenous idea crops up next for helping those in need.
For instance, in Nagpur city, when there was a dire need for urgent hospitalisation amidst countless cases, Rotary members from various clubs came together to set up a COVID control room and start a helpline that would be operational round the clock to share critical information on availability of beds and its allotment process to the public. It was indeed one of the best instances of Government-Rotary-Citizen partnership. Similarly, a war room was also setup in Bengaluru where 250 volunteers spent their time attending over 2000 calls per day.

And when the oxygen crisis raged across India, the Rotary Club of Pondicherry Midtown, stepped up to donate 42 Oxygen-beds and 2 Multi Para Monitors to Indira Gandhi Medical College Hospital.

Overall, nearly 1500 covid beds have been set up across India by Rotary Members till date.

At Haryana, Kerala, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Maharastra , Assam, and West Bengal, and many other states free Covid-19 vaccination centres have been set up. Rotary Club of Madras is working with the Tamil Nadu government to help support procurement, cold chain storage and delivery of vaccines. Rotary Clubs in Delhi set up 10 oxygen plants, started Oxygen concentrator banks along with a dedicated helpline with nearly 30 members, for coordinating most emergent needs for the people of Delhi including medicines, hospital beds, oxygen.

When need for medical equipment was at its peak, Rotary joined hands with ACT Grants and Swasth Alliance, entering into an MoU with United Way Bengaluru to supply free-of-cost Covid care. This included 50,000 oxygen concentrators, 12,000 oxygen cylinders, 5,000 BIPAP (Ventilator like machines) (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure), 100 PSA Plants (Prostrate -Specific Antigen) and 50,000 Pulse Oximeters.

In last one year, our mission to inspire, empower and connect people became a revolution that strengthened the world’s largest democracy’s fight against the deadly coronavirus. Initially, what seemed like a war too hard to be fought, eventually seemed defeatable with collective efforts of those willing to make a difference.

Dear Friends in Rotary,
COMPLACENCY CAN KILL US 
Rotary Club of Pondicherry Midtown has donated 42 Oxygenated-beds and 2 Multi Para Monitors to Indira Gandhi Medical College Hospital. This project was inaugurated by the Chief Minister and handed over to the Director of IGMC on 9th June, 2021.
This action by Rotarians will be of great assistance to the citizens of Pondicherry, during the pandemic and will also remain useful for many years to come. I congratulate and salute Rotarians of RC Pondicherry Midtown for coming to the forefront in the battle against Covid 19.
The latest news reports suggest that the 2nd wave of Covid is on the wane and various parts of the country are coming out of lockdown in a phased manner. This is a critical point which we must remember: 
Complacency and Carelessness can Kill us.
While millions of Indians have already been vaccinated, there are millions more who have not got their 1st jab yet. This includes many of our youth and children, who may be most vulnerable in the face of a 3rd wave of Covid. As in the case of Polio, 99 % Success could turn out to be 100 % Failure
We are approaching the start of a new Rotary Year. I urge the incoming District Governors to ensure that there is no let-up in our efforts to fight Covid. Please keep this battle on high priority and encourage all Rotary Clubs to extend support in every possible way.
Continuity in Rotary can be best expressed as Rotary Offer Opportunities to Serve to Change Lives.

Dear Friends,

I am pleased to share that anopinion piece on my behalf that has appeared in The CSR Journal today highlighting vaccine as the only solution to control the pandemic and learnings from eradicating polio in India.

The article also talks about Rotary India’s COVID-19 task force and initiatives at club-level .

Please refer to the below link to read the article:

Combating COVID-19 with Vaccine and Know-How from Ending Polio

About CSR journal– The CSR Journal Magazine is an online platform which covers developments in and around the corporate social responsibility domain through news reporting. They have a monthly reach of around 1 million.

Dear Rotary Leaders

 Now you hear it

Sometimes you don’t. Human voice is an uncanny subject and its link with moods of persons are complex. During these stressful times that is happening during one lockdown after another, I found that hearing to positive reports about how people are helping to fight Covid gives a new meaning to life. My sources of hope these days have been the voices of Rotarians, both near and afar, who inform me how Rotary is stepping up its service activities. I prefer talking to Rotarians, rather than texting and I find myself being enthralled to hear about the huge impact Rotary is able to make in the healthcare area during this pandemic.

So, it was a sheer joy to hear that Medicare equipment worth about INR 300 crore (about USD 41 million) was being distributed in India through Rotary. Rotary Club of Madras North, RI District 3232 had contacted ACT Grants in USA and they put together a huge aid to be sent to India. The Indian arm of ACT Grants, United Way of Bengaluru, represents ACT Grants and Swasth Alliance, a consortium of healthcare professionals from USA. United Way of Bengaluru has entered into a MOU with Rotary India Humanity Foundation to supply many items free of cost for Covid care. They include 50,000 Oxygen concentrators,12,000 Oxygen cylinders, 5,000 BIPAP (Ventilator like machines) (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure), 100 PSA Plants (Prostrate -Specific Antigen) and 50,000 Pulse Oximeters.

These will be supplied through Rotary clubs in many parts of India and the beneficiaries will include Public Health Care facilities, Primary Health Care Centres, Covid Care centres and community health centres. NGOs who run charitable healthcare centres, selected Private hospitals and individuals who can donate the equipment to PHCs are also eligible to receive the items. The estimated value of this aid is USD 41 million.

With most of us stuck at home, Rotary leaders said, “Thou shalt not remain idle. You shalt be industrious and sharpen your skills and there is enough space for Rotarians who want to do many things.” This meant, ‘Serve Constantly,’ so that those who are fighting for life will know that everything is not lost when Rotarians are there. 

I found that doing such life-saving work keeps us in fine fettle. When the Government said, “It is lockdown time, stay at home,” they did not mean, “Be idle, be happy.” Idling is not honourable for Rotarians and we have to be on the eternal treadmill to keep our projects going. Fancy university degrees and swelling bank accounts cannot buy us happiness. When you stand on the terrace of your home and stare, devoid of thoughts at the blue skies or starry nights you will hear your inner voice saying, “Serve to Change Lives.” That is exactly what we have heard before and will hear again and again as this voice emanates from our heart.

Dear Rotary Leader,

I am excited to announce a potentially game-changing partnership between the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rotary India’s Covid Task Force on COVID to :

1.    Promote mass immunization against COVID

2.    Debunk myths and rumours associated with the COVID vaccines, COVID itself and with concerns associated with it, such as “Black Fungus”, “White Fungus”, et. al

3.    Provide Palliative Care to patients suffering from COVID

4.    Bolster the Health Care Infrastructure in India to be in readiness for any subsequent “Waves” of COVID.

Along with Vice Chairs of the Rotary India’s Covid Task Force PDG Deepak Kapur and PDG Ranjan Dhingra, I was privileged to attend a brainstorming session over a virtual call with the representatives of the Ministry , Health and Family Welfare and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation stationed in the “Ministry of Health War Room” in the offices of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, on June 1.

We look forward to working with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in pursuance of the four objectives mentioned above. I will keep you apprised about further plans and look forward to your support and active participation in this endeavour.

Dear Rotary Leaders
The Moving Force
There has to be a force to move mountains to make things happen. Even to do good! Remember the old phrase, “If the mountain does not come to Mohammed, then Mohammed must to the mountain?” Taking a cue from this phrase, the Rotarians of RC Pune Central, RI District 3131, decided to move vaccines to the public and not wait for them to come to the vaccination centres.  Pune, the central hub of vaccine manufacture in India, has been in the news for the past several months. Probably, people in India and elsewhere are waiting for more vaccines to be produced here and to be shipped to their States and Countries. These are difficult times for people everywhere and those in Pune are no exception. Rotarians here were moved into action and decided that the population must the vaccinated to prevent Covid from spreading.
The vaccination drive needed to pick up speed with more vaccines being made available, but some reports suggest that wastages take place because of hesitancy among the people to go to a centre and get the jab.The statistics of vaccination released in the press a couple of days ago shows that only 34% of the Indians above the age of 45 and just 42% of those above the age of 60 got their first jab. Only 4.5% of the total adult population of India, which is above 90 crores, got both the doses and only 16% of the total adult population received at least one jab. About 5% of the population in the age group of 18 to 44 years have got their first shot. 
With the second wave of Covid showing no sign of abating soon, it was imperative that people must get vaccinated, since all other restrictions like lockdown, social distancing and wearing masks can only do so much and not give the person the level of protection needed from the virus. The project of RC Pune Central, aptly name VACCINE ON WHEELS is a mobile vaccination clinic with doctors, qualified nurses and IT professionals on board. On-site registration is handled by the IT volunteers. There is a cold-chain and kits to monitor if any adverse event happens after vaccination. 
The Mayor of Pune and the Municipal Commissioner of Pune have entered into a MOU with the club and organisations are generous with their CSR contributions. There are 5 mobile vaccination clinics functioning now in Pune area and already over 5,000 people have been vaccinated from the time the wheels started rolling on May 17, 2021. Seeing the success of this, the Corporations in Mumbai, Nagpur, Cuttack, Bhubaneshwar, Puri and Hyderabad have also shown their interest in partnering with Rotary to get things moving. 
One of the tests of leadership is the ability to recognise a problem before it becomes an emergency. Rotary leaders around the world have been proactive in offering solutions and help when it comes to saving precious lives of people and people know that we are a different kind of organisation and that extends to the way we talk about our work. Rotarians know that they have a voice and it must be used for the voiceless people. Otherwise, there is no need for a voice within us. Raise your voice, make people take the jab. This is your story and we have only just begun writing about it.

Dear Rotary Leaders

Take That Call

This month marks over one year of challenge we are facing from Covid 19 virus. This has brought Rotary volunteers to the fore like never before. In the months that followed from March 2020, Rotarians attracted the attention of the nation and the world, inspiring hundreds of people to take to serving the people in whatever manner they could.

When we look back today, more than the Covid 19 virus, the community was faced with debating the question “ Life or Livelihood “. Life comes first, but to sustain that life every day, thousands of people needed a livelihood to earn something to buy food. But ordinary people from disparate backgrounds came together to narrow the gap between the ideals of life and lived reality. They gave the hope that life must go on and good times will come.
Rotary clubs have been doing diversified projects during these times and there is no telling what the next idea would be and from where it will come. Helping in vaccination drive, giving oxygen concentrators, oxygen plants, getting wards ready in hospitals to take in more patients and arranging meals are few of the activities Rotarians are doing. Understanding the need of day was hospitalization and more importantly the need for correct news about where beds are available, Rotarians, Anns and Rotaractors from various clubs in Nagpur city have set up a Covid control room and helpline to give information about the bed availability and allotment process to the public. This is perhaps the best example of Government-Rotary-Citizen’s partnership and the call centre works 4 shifts 24×7. In Bangalore the Rotary War Room set up by the Rotarians with 250 volunteers answers over 2,000 calls a day and the telephones have not stopped ringing.

I would encourage all Rotary clubs, especially those in rural and semi-urban areas to get together, talk to the local administration and set up such call centres, give wide publicity to the phone numbers and answer every call. Hear the call of the people desperately wanting help. Give them the proper guidance of where to go for hospitalization immediately and serve to change their lives. This unique call centre idea of Rotarians can be replicated in many towns and cities.

Rooted in our organisation’s mission to inspire, empower and connect people to change their world, Rotary must be seen to touch the lives of people who need help now. The relentless attack of the virus can be stopped by your efforts and people can get a new lease of life once they know that their cries for help will be heard.

Take that call. Be the answer to their hopes that they can live to see another day.

Dear Rotary Leaders,
THE POWER OF 41
In an admirable initiative, 41 Rotary Clubs from Coimbatore in RI Dist.3201 have pooled their resources for ‘Project Sanjeevani’ to coordinate Covid relief activities in the region.

The project focuses on 3 verticals viz. 1. Vaccination 2. Public Awareness and 3. Provision of medical equipment to Govt. hospitals and primary health centres.

Work is on to provide 180 Oxygen beds to Coimbatore Medical College Hospital and 260 oxygen beds to Government Medical College Hospital and ESIS Hospital.

An Extracorporeal  Membrane Oxygenation (ECMA) device will also be donated to Coimbatore Medical College Hospital.

Rotary Clubs and Rotary Districts must pick up the baton and collaborate to provide similar services in all parts of the country.

Rotarians of Coimbatore, I salute you for this outstanding effort in the battle against Covid and for setting a fine example of ‘Service above Self’. You have made Rotary proud! I am sure many Districts in India will will undertake such activities to support the Government in its fight against Covid Pandemic.

Well done Rotary in District 3201 ! Keep it up ! 

Dear friends in Rotary,
ROTARY CLUB OF MADRAS SETS AN EXAMPLE 
When the Covid pandemic struck India, Rotary Club of Madras was the first to enter into an agreement with the Government of Tamil Nadu to partner in the Covid relief work including vaccination. 
Rotary Club of Madras, one of the pre-eminent Rotary clubs in India, thought big and moved fast. The club started off by donating two refrigerated trucks, at a cost of more than Rs.1 crore for transportation of the vaccine.
The club did not stop at that. It has organised 9 camps over two days across the city of Chennai with the assistance of The Greater Chennai Corporation. Over 3,000 people are benefitted in the camps being held on May 16th and 17th in the city. The vaccines are given free of cost.
I must compliment the Club President, Secretary, Project Coordinator and everyone involved for the splendid work.
Many State Governments are now tying up with other Rotary Districts with similar arrangements.  Free vaccination centres are coming up in many places due to the efforts of Rotary clubs. This is widening the scale of beneficiaries across the country.I urge all of you to pick up the baton and tie up with your local government authorities to help people get vaccinated.
At the same time, please ensure that we maintain high standards of safety and hygiene, with physical distancing and the use of face masks at all times. 
We have a long way to go before every Indian walks free of Covid, but Rotary has shown the way. 

Dear friends in Rotary,
 FIGHTING COVID IS OUR PRIORITY
On one hand, we receive daily news of the havoc caused by the Covid-19 virus, the alarming rate of infection and the shocking level of fatalities. At the same time, it is heartening to see that Rotary Clubs and Rotarians across India have come to the forefront of the battle against the dreaded virus. Take a look at the great work done by Rotary in the last few months:
ü  Free vaccination centres have been established in many states.
ü  Refrigerated trucks for Vaccine transportation have been provided.
ü  Availability of hospital beds been enhanced
ü  Oxygen generation plants have been set up in hospitals.
ü  Oxygen concentrators are being provided.
ü  Plasma supplies are being coordinated.
ü  Call centres have been set up to provide accurate information and ensure coordination of Covid relief work.
ü  Dedicated groups of Rotarians have been set up to rush aid to Covid patients.
Once again, Rotarians have proved their insatiable capacity to serve society. I congratulate and salute you for providing exemplary leadership during this National crisis.
However, we have a long way to go. The good work being done needs to be multiplied at all levels. We need more, nay, much more of all the facilities being provided.
The 2nd wave of the pandemic may have peaked, but our efforts need to spike to higher levels. As vaccine supplies get restored to adequate levels, we in turn must gear up to ensure that the communities that we live in become safer and safer, every day.
There is a genuine concern that the virus may seek to infect the younger population. If that were to happen, the economy would be badly hit. The safety net of vaccination needs to spread far and wide to cover as many people as possible, as fast as possible.
I urge all of you to make the battle against Covid your priority. 
 Jaan hai to Jahaan Hai!

Dear Rotary Leaders
Delhi Premier League
The IPL has been postponed. But there is another Premier League in Delhi that is scoring high. Here, you can bet that the players will perform to their highest level of skill and the results are always predictable. It will be a Win-Win situation. Everyone plays for the team and they know how not to breach the bio-bubble that has been created when working in full view of the public and for the benefit of the community.
We are talking about the Rotarians of Rotary Club of Delhi Premier and their work is a story of selflessness, service and commitment to make Delhi a safer place where Covid patients need not die for want of Oxygen. The District Governor of RI District 3011 Sanjiv Rai Mehra had committed to install 10 Oxygen plants within a week! Delhi was always known for its daredevils who can convert any challenge into an opportunity to step up on the run-rate to meet the target. The Club’s President and his team of 72 members installed 7 Oxygen plants in 7 hospitals in Delhi within 2 weeks and the first plant breathed the precious oxygen into the patients within 48 hours of the Club entering the arena. 
Six plants with a capacity of 45 litres per minute were installed in small hospitals which had up to 50 beds and the 500 litres per minute plant was set up in Deen Dayal Hospital which has 100 beds. This Rupees Two Crore project, will benefit hundreds of patients immediately and the hospitals have agreed to treat all underprivileged persons.
After the Rotary Covid Task Force started to interact with the Rotary clubs and leaders, we are seeing how much these unsung heroes accomplish every single day. Rotarians are the ones putting in overtime as frontline healthcare workers in rushing medical aid to various parts of the country. They are taking up activist role in their community and removing vaccine hesitancy among people. Many Rotary families are stepping up to care for the families of those who need help when situation demands their intervention. The news I get about the varied services Rotarians are doing is awe inspiring and what gives me so much hope is that Rotary leaders, everywhere who read these stories, are getting determined to replicate the projects in their districts.
People are waiting in ambulances and some are dying there even before they can enter the hospital premises. We can’t let that happen. Every person who is affected by Covid deserves a treatment. 
Projects done by such Rotary Clubs should be a catalyst for a long overdue investment in development of small medical facilities by Rotary Clubs in every village. Creating such centres will breathe new life into societies and move patients from hope to life. May be some clubs can do it alone, some clubs may need to collaborate with donors and other institutions. But Rotary’s mission will guide our efforts to fulfill our desire of making this world a better and safer place for all to live.
Eradicating Covid is so important to us because we know that people all over the world are watching to see how India gets over this wave. The citizens are observing the full expression of our brilliance, talent and ideas when we say we, “Serve to Change Lives.”
For the participants in the Rotary Premier League, there is no postponement of service, because they feel inspired to continue the work of saving lives today, tomorrow and for eternity.

Dear Mr Sri Katta ,

Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million  leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For more than 116 years, Rotary’s people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.

Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our 35,000+ clubs work together to:

• Promote peace
• Fight disease
• Provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene
• Save mothers and children
• Support education
• Grow local economies
• Environment protection 

Our mission

We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

Vision statement

Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Major Health Care Initiatives

Rotary’s most noteworthy initiative in the field of Health is a world-wide initiative to eradicate Polio from the world. Rotary floated the idea that Polio was a disease that could be eradicated from the world, and forged a world-wide partnership with WHO, UNICEF, CDC, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and GAVI (the Vaccine Alliance) to help Governments across the world to immunize every child up to the age of 5. Dramatic progress has been made towards a Polio-free world since 1988, with only 2 countries remaining Polio-endemic (Pakistan and Afghanistan). 

Significant initiatives have been undertaken by Rotary Clubs to address the consequences of diseases like Tuberculosis, Measles, Rubella and a whole host of other diseases.

With the advent of the COVID 19 outbreak, Rotarians in India geared up to address issues like :

Providing tele-consultations for people without recourse to physicians 

Actively aiding the Government’s efforts to immunize its citizens against COVID by setting up Immunization Centres, facilitating immunization at Government run Centres, debunking rumours and misinformation about immunization, transporting vaccines, emotional counselling for those suffering from COVID, sourcing and providing masks, PPE Kits, etc. and setting up Oxygen Banks to address the woeful lack of Oxygen in hospitals and for patients quarantining at home.

With the crumbling of the complete Health Infrastructure due to the unprecedented load on it caused by the Pandemic, there is an acute shortage of the following equipment and supplies that Rotary Clubs are trying to provide through a Public-Private initiative :

 Oxygen Cylinders and Oxygen Concentrators ; putting up Oxygen Generating Plants in Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes ; sourcing lifesaving drugs ; Bipap machines ; and Ventilators.

To oversee the entire process of sourcing, procurement, checking the quality of the sourced products and their distribution, the Senior Leadership in India has set up a National Task Force, which has developed the following chain :

National Task Force members (with 1 member charged with overseeing and facilitating operations in different Rotary Districts in India)

The Task Force members work in close cooperation and through the Rotary District Governors of each Rotary District

The District Governors work through individual Rotary Clubs, which are present in almost every town in India. The individual Rotary Clubs work in close collaboration with the Government District Magistrates.

All these activities, in order to generate a snowballing effect in the society, are extensively publicised through frequent Media Conferences and interactions with the Media, as well as PSAs and extensive use of Social Media (multiple WhatsApp groups, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.).

Dear Rotary Leaders

You Take My Breath Away

People all over the world have been left speechless and breathless seeing the service activities of Rotarians and they have said, “You take my breath away.” But today, thousands of people are saying the same phrase, though for a different reason. Yes, Oxygen deficit amid mounting Covid 19 cases have left people breathless and they are dying in hospitals and homes. Covid is taking the breath away of thousands of people everyday and this is not a situation where Rotarians can just wring their hands and be mute spectators.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare says that medical oxygen is a critical component in the treatment of Covid 19 affected persons. India has a daily overall production capacity of over 7000 Metric Tonnes of oxygen, including volumes produced for industrial use. The production of liquid medical oxygen in the county is expected to cross 9,250 MT per day by this month.

Various factors, including the surge in number of cases, has resulted in the shortage of oxygen. Earlier the bulk of health sector’s oxygen requirement was met with supplies delivered in form of oxygen cylinders containing the element either in form of oxygen as high purity gas or through dedicated cryogenic tankers that transport oxygen. With just over 1,200 cryogenic tankers available for transport of liquid medical oxygen, today we need oxygen concentrators to reach every hospital and nursing home in the nook and corner of our country.

Oxygen concentrators can be received as gifts or ordered online from abroad and the Government of India has reduced the GST to 12% till end of June 2021 and waived the customs duty. Custom clearance will be granted for such imports by treating them on par with life- saving drugs.

I request every Rotary Leader to talk to their batchmates and sister clubs in various countries and co-ordinate the shipment of oxygen concentrators to India. Rotary clubs must be able to fund this life-saving equipment by approaching philanthropists in their community and other organisations.

Many countries have promised help and supplies have started arriving. But to micro-manage this crisis of oxygen shortage, Rotary Clubs can receive the concentrators as gifts or even pay for it since no one is safe unless oxygen is available to make you breathe. We have shown the world what world class service is and have given a new lease of life to children, aged people, homeless and those who need medical care. Rotary with over 4,100 clubs in India can deliver oxygen concentrators everywhere.

Now it is time once again to put life into Rotary. Your life and look beyond ourselves. Let every Covid patient wake up to breathe the fresh air of life once again. They should see our Rotary Service and left speechless. Covid cannot be allowed to take their breath away.

Dear District Governors,

Delhi Leads The Way 

Anup Mittal, District Governor-Elect (RI Dist. 3011) informs us that they have received clearance to install a 100- bed extension hospital at Ambedkar Hospital , Rohini , Delhi. This was achieved thanks to the office of PSA , GOI (PMO) , Health Minister of Delhi.            and the Rotary leadership in India.

This Rotary facility would commence operations in 4 weeks with the support of IIT Madras’s innovation technology with prefabricated hospital structure.

This is another fine example of active collaboration between Rotary and government authorities in the fight against Covid. Now is the time to stand up to the expectations of society and show that ours is an organisation truly dedicated to the service of humanity. Such activities will make every government consider Rotary as the first-choice partner in their endeavours.Kudos to the all Rotarians in Delhi on this excellent initiative.

Dear Rotary Leaders

India accounts for 1 in 4 or world’s deaths

The caption you are seeing is the headline in National Newspapers today. With over 3000 fatalities and 3.8 lakh infections on a single day, the situation is worrisome.

So, what is being done by Rotarians to reduce this? I must highlight the work of Rotary Club of Ujjain, RI District 3040 which has established a 100-bed quarantine center in Prashanti Garden which belongs to Rtn. Avanish Gupta. Many Rotarians have helped in this wonderful project which was dedicated to the community by the Education Minister of Madhya Pradesh on 23rd of April.

This is yet another instance of Rotary Serving Humanity. What is service? It is the action of voluntarily giving yourself to awaken humanity. If you attempt to define service, you confine it. However, a simple definition would be that service is the path that provides breakthrough for anyone who ardently desires more in every sphere of human endeavour. Every particle in your body is communicating with the entire cosmos. Service is about experiencing that.

Service is measured by the usefulness of your action. Service gives you the joy and fulfillment of offering something that touches and transforms lives. When urgent humanitarian relief programmes have to be put in place, individuals cannot take up that challenge. We need a structured organisation that can spring into action whenever and wherever humanity needs help.

Make no mistake. Society continues to pick up speed like a racing car on a track. The speed of human movement from pre-modern times to now has increased by a factor of 100. The speed of communication has skyrocketed by a factor of 10 million in this decade. Hence, when you decide to serve humanity, you need the speed and the proficiency to deliver what the community needs.

Rotary Serving Humanity means that every Rotarian has empathy. What India needs now is a new kind of army – the army of the ‘Kind.’ Today, more than ever, society here depends on the total network of relations between good people, kind people and people who cannot afford to see others suffer.

We, in Rotary, are that kind of people. Let us strengthen our army of volunteers and meet the challenge posed by this pandemic. The greatness and glory of Rotary and its service is not just talking about its past, but in the kind of future that we have to create now. Let us make it happen.

Minutes of the Meeting of Rotary’s  India Covid Task Force held on 28 April 2021

Present: PRID Ashok Mahajan (Chairman), Raja Saboo (PRIP), Vice Chairmen Deepak Kapur & Ranjan Dhingra  and 34 committee members and DGs

Meeting started at 12 noon. Chairman Ashok Mahajan welcomed all and requested for a minute of silence in the memory of Rotarians whom we have lost recently to Covid.

Speedy recovery of Rotarians affected by Covid including RIPE Shekhar Mehta and PDG J.B Kamdar.

In his opening remarks, Chairman Ashok Mahajan spoke of the recent work of the Covid Task Force in Kerala, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan , Haryana ,West Bengal etc .

He said that over 250,000 free Covid vaccinations have been completed by Rotary in India. 

Rotary’s MOU in Haryana facilitated by PDG T.K Ruby and mobile vaccination units in the State were mentioned. 

MOU of Rotary Club of Madras with the Government of Tamil Nadu was highlighted. 

Chairman appreciated that  Rotary Club of Madras handed over to the Government of Tamil Nadu  two refrigerated vehicles costing over Rs 1 Crore ( about 150,000US$) which can carry 4.4 million Vaccines. 

A 100 bedded hospital has been set-up by Rotary Club of Ujjain, District 3040. 

The Oxygen plant set up overnight in Delhi was appreciated.  This was made possible by the leadership of  DG Sanjeev Mehra. 

Chairman also spoke about the offer of North American Rotarians to transfer funds for oxygen concentrators. 

PRID Panduranga Shetty has informed the Chairman  that oxygen generators worth US $ 1 million had been offered by One of his associates  in the USA. With a condition that freight and clearing charges will be taken by Rotary. Task Force members  urged the Chairman to take the offer and said that required funds can be mobilized.  Vinod Bhatia suggested that recipient districts can be requested to raise funds for freight.

Rotary International Past President Raja Saboo inspired all about the importance of vaccination. If only we had vaccines earlier, we would not have lost leaders like PRID Yash Pal Das and PRIP Luis Giay.  Now that the vaccines are available, we should go all out and save people.  Mobile vaccination unit is a good idea. 

Rotary can and must create awareness about Covid protocols.  He saluted the good work done by Rotarians all over the country and encouraged Covid Task Force to go ahead.

Chairman Ashok Mahajan informed that PRIP Kalyan Banerjee could not participate due to personal reasons.

Zonal Coordinator Sunil K Zachariah presented details of the work done in Kerala.  62,000 free vaccinations have been done through 57 Centres/camps.  Currently there is a vaccine scarcity.  Rotary in Kerala has formulated a 12 point action plan for May and the details were shared. He assured that by 31May Kerala state will have a minimum of 100 Centres /camps and over 100,000 individuals will receive vaccines through Rotary.
Zonal Coordinator T.K Ruby presented details of the MOU with the Government of Haryana.  Rotary has received approval to hold vaccination camps in all districts of the State.  Ruby thanked Dr.Rita Kalra for helping in the partnership with the Government of Haryana.  From 16 April two mobile vaccination units have started operation. More such mobile units have been planned.

Zonal Coordinator Mukul Sinha spoke about alliance with the Government of West Bengal. He assured that the Rotarians of West Bengal will do their best and that several vaccination camps are in the pipeline.  Rotary Car Rally attracted good media attention and created awareness.  End Covid Now Tee shirts made a good impact.

Vice Chairman Deepak Kapur was emotional when he referred to the alarming situation in Delhi.  Patients are dying due to the scarcity of medical oxygen. He spoke about the efforts of DG Sanjeev Mehra who has overnight set up an oxygen generation plant in a hospital.

DG Sanjeev Mehra spoke about the anguish of oxygen shortage.  Rotary District 3011 has installed one Rotary oxygen generator plant and is now in the process of installing another two.  10 such oxygen generation plants have been committed by Rotary  in  D3011 at an estimated cost of Rs.2 crores.
It was decided to use Rotary Club of Chandigarh’s FCRA account for receiving funds from abroad for settling up the Oxygen plant.

Rotary Club of Chandigarh will form a partnership with District 3011  for implementing  the project  in full compliance of the FCRA rules.

Vice Chairman Ranjan Dhingra proposed vote of thanks

Chairman adjourned the meeting at 1.15 pm, after announcing that the next meeting of the Task Force will be held in June.

I am happy to inform you that Rotary Club of Madras, India has risen to the challenge of maintaining the cold chain of Covid vaccination in Tamilnadu, India.

They are donating:

·         2 refrigerated trucks (14 ft.) with a total capacity of transporting 4500 litres of vaccine i.e. 4.4 million doses from the central vaccine store to the Zonal vaccine stores.

·         2 refrigerated trucks (8 ft.) with a total capacity of transporting 2000 litres i.e. 2 million doses of vaccine from the Zonal stores to the District stores.

·         15 Ice Lined refrigerators that can store 1 million doses of vaccines in the district stores

·         1000 vaccine carriers that can be used to vaccinate up to 3 million people each time

Thus Rotary Club of Madras will “Carry the Vaccines for the people of Tamilnadu, India”.

The equipment will be received by the Principal Secretary – Health and Family Welfare – Dr. T. Radhakrishnan, IAS and handed over to the Director of Public Health and Hygiene Dr. Selvavinayagam between 2 PM and 2.30 PM on Tuesday 27th April 2021, at the Tamilnadu Government Multi Super Speciality Hospital, Omandurar Estate, Chennai, India.

Thus Rotary Club of Madras will “Carry the Vaccines for the people of Tamilnadu, India”.

This is a fine example of Rotary collaborating with the local government and shows the way forward for Rotary clubs all over India.

Recent reports also indicate a serious shortage of supply of medical oxygen in Covid hospitals. This is another area where Rotary Clubs can step up to assist the government.

I urge you to take up these issues in right earnest, because the battle against Covid can be won only if all of us pitch in with all available resources.Please urge Rotary Clubs to help support the vaccination drive in every possible way.
Yours in Rotary

Dear Rotary Leaders

Rotary by any other name

Good news is that the Government of India has approved the plan to mobilise the support of more than 100,000 Civil Society Organisations (CSO) and NGOs to fight Covid 19 surge. The Government think tank, Niti Aayog, has written to the State Chief Secretaries and urged them mobilse all CSOs and NGOs in their area and take their help in ensuring Covid appropriate behaviour amongst the public. This will include spreading messages about the use of masks, need to maintain physical distancing and about the necessity to get vaccinated.

Rotary has been taking the initiative with the Government of India and the various State Governments for the past several months to form partnerships to help to fight Covid. What matters is that now the CSOs (probably Rotary is classified in this category) and NGOs have been invited to join the battle to save 1.3 billion people of the country.

The second wave has taken most of us by surprise. People in the local administration are either confused or terrified, or both. They have many questions on how to defeat the corona virus. May be there is no one place with all the answers. But Rotary has surely a lot of practical knowledge about the advocacy needed in removing vaccine hesitancy and forging rare partnerships with community and religious leaders to spread the message and donate life saving equipment.

People are either suffering from news fatigue or being locked down. Many of them ignored the fear – mongers who said, “Wear the mask, take the jab, keep away from people, good or bad, etc.” and some of them went around the country and later went to their funeral. They are finally isolated! Rotary must spread the message that crowding is bad for health in the present scenario.

Spreading awareness amongst the ‘hashtag’ generation of today is quite easy. The first wave brought into focus the weakness of the society and family life. But Rotary has more than 116 years of experience in implementing emotional health interventions during disasters and virus attacks.

Meet the local Government authorities with the directions given by the Government of India about enlisting our support. Tell them about our ability to strengthen individuals, families and communities in situations however challenging they may be. Use the resources available around you, including the rich spiritual resources of the county to convert patients from victims to victors.
Rotary, by any other name, will be found in the favoured list of the Government to do good. Don’t miss the opportunity to show Rotary Cares. We are all sharing an abiding faith in the possibilities of our Rotary movement. Rotary’s story is part of the larger World Story. Today, we are all together in Rotary and our pride is based on the very simple premise made over 100 years ago, “Service Above Self.” By inviting us, the Government is asking us to reaffirm our values and commitments, to hold them against a hard reality of pandemic and see how we are measuring up to the legacy of our founding fathers. Rotary Service is the belief that we are connected as one people. Let’s do it.

Dear District leaders

A Country of Particular Concern

During the peak of the first wave, India’s daily case tally did not cross 1 lakh mark. Now India has recorded more than 3.15 lakh cases on a single day. This is the highest ever single day spike in virus in the world. In this scenario, vaccination is the only solution to control the pandemic. I am particularly happy that Rotary India’s Covid Vaccination Task Force has been able to motivate clubs to collaborate with the local governments to start vaccination centres in areas that needed them.

The Rotary Club of Yamuna Nagar Jagadhari, RI District 3080, has collaborated with the Government of Haryana and will start a vaccination drive from April 22, 2021 till May 5, 2021, when centres will be opened near prominent residential areas. They will take the assistance of the Government in administering the jab to eligible people. Our congratulations to the Zonal Coordinator and the District Governor for such a fine initiative. I am sure the leadership will continue to support the Government and make sure every eligible gets the jab .

We understand the concern of the Government of India in not encouraging door-to-door vaccination because of the challenges in maintaining the protocol of observation of people for 30 minutes after vaccination. Further, the report says that frequent movement of vaccine door-to-door can affect its efficacy, occurrence of high wastage and even contamination. In a rare case of Adverse Effect Following Immunisation, (AEFI) Government also does not want delay in reaching a medical facility.

Rotary clubs can approach the local government to permit setting up of special centres to cater to the need of physically challenged persons and senior citizens. This will be a great service since many differently abled people need the support of ambulance to go a vaccination centre. If minimum approved facilities are provided and requirements are met, Rotary clubs can organise smaller vehicles (Maruti Omni) which can be converted into ambulances for transporting differently abled people to vaccination centres.

News reports state that the vaccination pace has dropped again in the last ten days from over 3.6 million daily doses to 2.8 million. There are over 940 million adults in India and if we have to be safe in the coming months, everyone of them must be vaccinated. This means that the average doses should increase to at least 6.8 million per day. Except few States, most States which have reported rapid rise in infections have administered a lower number of doses as per the data published in the national newspapers which have quoted the source as ‘covid19india.org’.

This is the time for Rotarians to act. We may have to address several challenges to get the people vaccinated. But, as I keep on stressing, start from your home, your club members, their families, Rotaractors, Annets, your friends, business associates, workers in your home, offices and everyone known to you or you may meet or talk.

I am sure each one of you will able to involve every Rotary Club in this endeavour to fight against Covid and see that we get rid of this dreadful virus.

Dear District Leaders

The Messenger is also Important as the Message

There cannot be one-size-fits-all approach when we fight Covid 19 globally and in particular within India. But some things have worked in the past during somewhat similar situations. The most important among them is building public confidence that we can win over any pandemic if you adhere to suggestions given by healthcare experts.

The news is alarming. With over 2.9 lakh cases, States are resorting to lockdowns and imposing severe curbs. People call this the second wave, but now we have tools to tackle the virus. Vaccines are the most reliable public health tools. Government has opened up the drive to anyone over the age of 18 years and this brings a great responsibility on Rotarians to promote the programme.

I still get reports that even Rotarians and those associated with Rotary work are still hesitant to accept the vaccine which is a life-saving scientific intervention. I hope you have sent an appeal to all the clubs in your district that every Rotarian and his/her spouse and now all eligible Annets must be vaccinated without wasting time. Probably a weekly reminder to every club is a necessity in today’s context.

Till Tuesday (20.4.2021) over 127.1 million doses of vaccines have been given and near 600 million new eligible people will be added to the beneficiary list from May 1, 2021. It is estimated that nearly 1,200 million doses will be needed to vaccinate all over 18 years if the pandemic has to be brought under control. This calls for Rotary clubs to allocate more time and monetary resources to stress the need for vaccination with the public. India has only administered about 9.21 vaccination doses per 100 persons which is lower than the world average of 11.8 doses per 100 people.

It is hoped that young adults (18 years to 25 years) will take advantage of the new vaccination policy and get the jab as soon as possible. You have to tell the Rotaractos and members of the clubs that they are the messengers chosen by the Government to help to fight this pandemic. The messengers, Rotarians, are trusted and you must set the example now.

Let us unite to fight the pandemic. Everything else can wait.

Dear friends in Rotary,

The morning newspaper tells us that Israel has become the first country to come out of lockdown, with more than 50 % of its population having been vaccinated, and the number of daily Covid cases falling to about 100.

The same newspaper reports that state administrations in India are contemplating varying degrees of lockdown in their respective states, as Covid positive cases continue to rise, with an alarming increase in fatalities. Closer home in Rotary, we have lost some good friends to the dreaded virus.

Are we really doing all we can to win this battle?

Rotary clubs in the state of Kerala, which, only 3 years ago was devastated by floods, have risen to the occasion by setting up free Covid vaccination centres all over the state. This is an exemplary show of Rotary’s dynamism in one of the smallest states of India. I congratulate the Zonal Coordinator, District Governors, District Coordinators and the  Rotarians in Kerala for this magnificent response to the crisis.

It is imperative that Rotary clubs in the rest of India follow the lead set by Kerala , Gujarat , Haryana, Tamil Nadu , Rajasthan , West Bengal and set up collaborative efforts with the local state governments. We must be proactive in this regard and find ways to alleviate the difficulties that arise in the vaccination effort.

Another full-scale lockdown will hit the economy and cause long-term pain for all. We must readily endure short-term inconveniences like physical distancing and use of face masks at all times. Rotary’s leadership insists that all physical meetings be cancelled. Please discourage any gatherings of Rotarians until the government declares it absolutely safe to do so. Any irresponsible behavior by Rotarians will taint the fair name of Rotary.

The next few months will decide the course of this war. The right actions at the right time will bring us victory.

Regards,

Dear District Leaders

I am happy to announce that the Government of Haryana has invited Rotary India’s Covid Task Force to join help them in the mass vaccination programme in the State. I congratulate the efforts of PDG T K Ruby of 3080 who is the Zonal Co-ordinator in arranging this partnership.

There is an often-unspoken belief behind everything Rotary International and Rotary Foundation does. It is the idea that change starts within each one of us and that the action of every single individual can make a powerful difference.  Here is something you might not know. Rotary leaders in India started this task force for you. They knew that building stronger communities and healthier people across the country are right here in your hometown, meant putting together something bigger than all of us. It meant connecting with today’s generation of leaders in all the States in India, investing in the work of the Governments and sharing the solutions for the benefit of over 1.3 billion citizens. This partnership is the model you would have created in your District and would probably find more uses for the benefit of the public.

That is our focus. We want to bring about lasting changes in healthcare partnerships for communities everywhere. But we can’t do it without your support.

The collaboration now in position with nearly half a dozen States is only the beginning of the change you have helped to create, the actions you’ve inspired. There is no chance we could have done all this without you by our side. This incredible task force is the true heart of your work, fueling our mission with your encouragement and support.

Together we should build on this progress during 2021, inspiring, connecting and empowering even more emerging leaders in Rotary, creating more networks for them to join and building a stronger nation for us all.

Let’s do this.

Dear friends in Rotary, The battle against Covid-19 has reached its most critical phase. On one hand, the vaccination drive is facing issues of adequate supply. At the same time, the number of positive cases is skyrocketing to alarming levels.At this juncture, the buzzwords for Rotary India’s Covid Task Force are: Diligence and Vigilance.We need to be diligent in promoting the efficacy of the vaccine and also in enabling vaccination centres to function smoothly. We also need to be vigilant in ensuring that people around us follow safety procedures like the use of face masks and physical distancing at all times.We cannot afford to allow the good work of the past few months to go down the drain. Rotary Clubs across the country must follow the lead set by Kerala, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Gujarat and set up free vaccination centres to supplement the efforts of the government. A much-needed initiative is the establishment of Quarantine Centres for those Covid + patients who do not need hospitalization. I urge Rotarians to pool their resources and work in this direction.In the meanwhile, we receive daily reports of people gathering in large numbers with complete disregard for safety and physical distance norms. Let us work actively to discourage such behavior.I am confident that this virus can be defeated, but only if all of us remain Diligent and Vigilant at all times. Let’s put our sincere efforts to support the Government in its fight against Covid Pandemic . I know the strength of our Rotarians. I also know that we all can get rid of this virus and ensure safe and healthy life for all . Always remember “WORKING TOGETHER CAN DO WONDERS”

Dear District Leaders

Capital Mistake

We have been advocating that Rotarians should first practice what they are supposed to preach when it comes to following the protocols and recommendations prescribed by the Government and RI in the fight against Covid 19. However, some Rotarians thought that they are those rare preternatural people who are exempt from certain physical laws.

The report received from a capital District of RI shows that at the end of a much-hyped training event held amidst the memories of the Moghul era resulted in many Rotarians contracting Covid.

I am reminded of the famous saying, “It is like blowing the Conch (Shank) into the ears of a deaf person.” To many, the definition of the word ‘Service’ is downright confusing if not incomplete. It looks like, “Your definition is thus different from my definition which is altogether different from any other person.”

In Rotary, you cannot be a service-oriented person for one performance or just for participating in the End Polio mission. The true Rotarian has his moments of service closer together.

Today, India is reporting over 1,35,000 cases and over 600 deaths in just 24 hours due to Corona. The Governments across the world want to take the help of Rotarians because they think we are disciplined, talented, brilliant, masterful, consummate, natural and will set an example. The actions of some Rotary leaders which endanger the lives of members, their families and the public does not seem to be conforming to the example set by RI Board in not having physical meetings and events.

There are many children in the economically backward sections of the society who are facing challenges in getting education during Covid. Their dreams of going back to school is shattered. Rotarians should use their resources to help these children who are eager to learn and absolutely determined to get an education worthy of their promise to become responsible adults in the society.

This is just one of the Service opportunities open to Rotarians now and we are asking you to postpone your revelry and contribute towards such causes. At the end of the day, when Covid is eradicated, we hope you will be able to join the Rotarians worldwide and tell the story of sacrifice and service so that the next generation of Rotarians will be inspired to pick up the baton and go forward to serve the community.

Covid Vaccine for All

For one full year, people all around the world were praying for an effective vaccine to stop Corona from killing them. Scientists delivered not just one, but many excellent vaccines. I expected that the people would be tripping over themselves to get vaccinated and many all over the world did just that. When the arrival of vaccines was announced, there were attempts to cut the line when people found that they were low down on the list of who is eligible and many were impatient at having to wait to get their jab.

But soon, in India, we found that a significant segment of people who did not seem enthusiastic to get the shot. Vaccine hesitancy takes different forms for different people. For some there is scepticism about anything new and some have a nagging suspicion that some conspiracy is afoot. Some people distrust big pharmaceutical companies and many need re-assurance before they could accept the vaccine. Some had wrong information about the vaccine, some are passive and indifferent and some think that vaccine has nothing to do with them. While it will take time to allay the doubts of hardcore conspiracy theorists, we can clear the minds of others who want to save themselves and those around them.

This is why Rotary Clubs were asked to help in creating awareness and advocacy about the vaccines and need to step up the drive. The efforts of the members of Rotary India’s Covid Task Force have now started paying dividends and I must particularly appreciate the efforts of PDG Sunil Zachariah of RI District 3201 and PDG Ashok Panjwani of R I District 3060 who are the Zonal Co-ordinator. Vaccination centres run by Rotary Clubs have started in Districts 3201, 3202, 3211, 3060 and many more are expected to be commissioned soon. In Tamil Nadu, the Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has given the nod to start vaccination in mini clinics across the State and I am sure many more states may follow the same .  The National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid has recommended that those above 45 years can get vaccinated and this is expected to create a huge demand for new vaccination centres.

I request Rotary Leaders in every District to advise the clubs to stop endangering the lives of their members and those in the community by arranging meetings and dinners in hotels and clubs and instead use the resources to support the opening of new vaccination centres.

We have in every district a team that is a communication sophisticate. It has an extremely effective communication system that it uses for various purposes including those which are frowned upon by RI. It is time that this system is deployed to address a larger community need. The soaring numbers that we are seeing today in Covid cases will continue to rise unless there is a serious attempt to get everyone vaccinated. Rotarians, this is your hour to serve. Do it well.Here I am reminded of what Swamy Vivekananda said “ARISE , AWAKE AND STOP NOT UNTIL THE GOAL IS REACHED “ and friends, today our goal is to make sure that we succeed in getting rid of COVID PANDEMIC and save the Mankind. 
Ashok MahajanChairman , Rotary India’s Covid Task Force 

Dear District Leaders
Share the Facts
People need information about the vaccines and vaccination programmes that can be trusted. That is why the Governments need the support of Rotary to reach every nook and corner of India with facts and facilities. This is a time for facts, not fear. This is a time for rationality, not rumors. This is a time for solidarity, not stigma.
Innovation is a part of Rotary’s DNA and critical to achieving its strategic objectives. The task of the Rotary India’s Covid Task Force is to increase the pace of the vaccination drive and strengthen the Government’s objective of vaccinating everyone above 45 years in the days to come.
In this venture, RI District 3201 launched two vaccinating centers in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Government of Kerala. The Government is supplying the vaccines free of cost and also providing trained people to vaccinate the public. RC Kalamasery took the lead in the putting up the centre in Rotary Karmakendra, Vattekunnam and RC Alwaye took the lead in putting up the center in the Rotary Center for Senior Citizens, Pazhanganad.
Rotary volunteers are manning the centres and State Bank of India is helping with the registration process with computers and manpower. Aditya Birla Group has supported with funds for posters and banners to publicise this service. A third center is being set up at Rotary Balbhavan with RC Cochin being the lead club. A Covid ward in the Government hospital near Cochin will get ventilators and other medical equipment worth Rs.70 lakhs through a Global Grant.
I congratulate the efforts of the Rotarians and the guidance given by the District Governor Jose chacko Madhavassery and Zonal Co-ordinator PDG Sunil Zachariah of the Zone. We have to jointly work to make our programme sustainable and every Rotary Club can contribute towards this cause. Life saving vaccines supplied by the Government must reach the beneficiaries and today your initiative and support can make this happen. 
You have to attract a diverse range of donors and investors in Rotary’s programme immediately. Donors must be told that vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective health investments in history and people need to get vaccinated for the wellbeing of everyone in the community. The level of advocacy must be stepped up and vaccine hesitancy must be addressed by you and other task force co-ordinators. To begin with, every Rotary club must proudly announce that all their eligible members and their spouses have been vaccinated and this will mean nearly 200,000 people belonging to Rotary have got the vaccine.  Let’s do our best to strengthen the efforts of the Government in its fight against COVID. I know we can do and I I know we all SHALL do .Wish you all a very happy and colorful HOLI ….

Corona Hatao

This is your slogan to fight Covid 19. As reported today in the news, there have been over 40,000 new cases of Covid 19, the highest in a single day and reported fatalities of 188 people in 24 hours.

I thank all the District Leaders and members of the Rotary India’s Covid Vaccination Task Force who attended the important meeting on March 15, 2021 and pledged support to take the vaccination drive forward and create a goodwill for Rotary among the public.

Schools are again being closed, office attendance has been curtailed in many places and the rising trajectory of daily new cases is visible in eight States. Experts say that the next wave is imminent and we in Rotary have to set the example and resist the temptation to hold celebrations of any nature in clubs which can result in case clusters in your area.

I read that RC Madras in District 3232 has signed an MOU with the Government of Tamil Nadu for supply of two 14-foot refrigerated vaccine trucks, two 8-foot refrigerated vaccine trucks, 10 ice-lined refrigerators and 1,000 vaccine carriers. The Government has also agreed to take steps to empanel government approved hospitals and medical centres run by Rotary Clubs and Rotarians to augment the vaccination drive. Such measures can be taken in other districts also, so that the visibility of Rotary as a service organisation is seen by the public who come for vaccination. 

Only 3.2 percent of the adult population in India has been vaccinated according to an article written by an eminent Professor of Epidemiology, Indian Institute of Public Health, Bangalore. Mobilising people can also be done by the accredited social health activists (ASHAs) in rural areas by Rotary Clubs.

Mentoring of each step of the vaccination process in rural areas and in semi-urban regions by the Rotary clubs is needed. By working with the local authorities and other nodal agencies of the Government, Rotary Clubs must assist in ensuring that all inter-sectoral co-ordination is done and that the necessary logistical and transport supplies are provided.

This is a gigantic task and can build a great image for Rotary and this is not something we cannot do. The country is making progress in its vaccination efforts but there are still many areas where Rotary can help and we should. 
I know for certain that your leadership in your District will certainly motivate the Rotary Clubs to support the Government in its fight against COVID-19. The Zonal Coordinator assigned to your District will always be there to assist you in making program more effective . Please make use of his services and help the Government in achieving its goal of Vaccinating all the countrymen.

The second meeting of the Rotary India COVID Task Force was held on the 15th of March, 2021 at 4.00pm on the Zoom platform.

Chairman PRID Ashok Mahajan called the meeting to order and welcomed PRIPs Raja Saboo, Kalyan Banerjee, members of the task force, Members of the advisory group, DGs, DGEs , District COVID coordinators and others. 

He outlined the role Rotarians are playing in advocacy, vaccine transportation and providing various supplies needed by the governments in various states. 

He congratulated Rotarians in Tamilnadu and West Bengal on being invited by the state governments to be partners in the program and added that he was expecting the same to happen in Goa and Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Rotarians in Uttar Pradesh have been involved since day one PP Ajay Saxena being a member of the advisory board of the UP government. 

He further mentioned that Rotarians in various states are providing selfy points, chairs, water, tea-coffee and helping people get vaccinated.

Rallies have been held in Districts 3110, 3040 and 3190 which have been publicized in the media. 

He then informed that Mrs. Rajashree Ji Birla  has been kind enough to sanction Rs. 50 Lakhs for Rotary’s efforts.

PRIP Raja Saboo expressing happiness over the initiatives taken by PRID Ashokji , called Rotarians warriors who have the  weapons to fight COVID.

He expected the Government to come out with a policy to provide vaccines for all soon. Calling it a challenge bigger than Polio, he stressed the need for awareness and said, ‘This is a time for action’.

PRIP Kalyan Banerjee pointed out the need to help seniors and women who were facing problems getting vaccinated. 

He mentioned that the Rotary hospital in Vapi was providing free vaccines for all. 

He added that in places like Mumbai, we need to go to large residential buildings and spread awareness through leaflets in local languages .

PDG J.B. Kamdar informed that RC of Madras had been appointed as the nodal agency by the state government largely due to the efforts of Rtn. Kapil Chitale. 

He further stated that all the districts in TN have been involved and work distributed involving individual members of the Madras club and Rotarians having their hospitals have started vaccinations. The total outlay is Rs. 11 Crores . 

He said 50000 masks have been manufactured, of which 15000 are sponsored by Rtn P P Vinod SARAOGI on the request of PRID Ashok Mahajan. These masks shortly will be distributed to various districts through his office.

PDG Jogesh Gambhir, Chairman of the Jharkhand Hospitals Association, said the government has high hopes of Rotary. 

Revenue district and block coordinators have been appointed and more volunteers- vaccinators and verifiers are needed. 

Considering the slow pace of vaccination, arranging camps and mobile clinics is the need of the hour.  

Awareness is being created through posters, banners, press releases, press conferences.

PDG Anoop Agrawal informed that in UP every selfy point was being erected and installed by Rotarians. 

A 1500 kms rally was organized by district 3110 in UP. Mentioning the various activities being carried out and needed in UP, 

He mentioned about the appointment of revenue district coordinators, messages on social media and the poor vaccination in the rural areas and said that the targets are not being reached.

PP Ajay Saxena gave suggestions on various activities that could be carried out at the vaccination centres .

PDG Dr. Rajiv Pradhan spoke about the meeting with the State health minister and informed of the 25 selfy points and numerous health centres.

He said stickers to the vaccinated are provided which further promotes vaccination. 

He mentioned that curtailment of movements is affecting our activities and called for political advocacy to boost the percentage of the population being vaccinated. 

He said Rotarians’ hospitals should start vaccinations and activities should percolate to  the club level. 

PDG Ashok Panjwani mentioned about the car rallies held in the districts assigned to him and said a directive from the central government is required for boosting activities. 

He pointed out the need to help villagers in vaccination and registration and suggested involving CSR people for campaigns and transportation of people. 

PDG Deepak Kapoor posed three question- 1. What should be Rotary’s role? 2. Why can’t we replicate Polio? 3. What can districts & clubs do?

He outlined the various aspects as advocacy, funds, social mobilization and hands-on vaccination. 

He suggested raising awareness to make it a people’s movement and said that Rotary needs to raise demand for vaccination to match supply by creating awareness and fighting rumours on social platforms. 

He suggested a variation of what we did twenty years ago-creating a sense of ownership in each Rotarian. 

He suggested that each club should prepare several banners stitch them together and display these long banners at prominent locations in each district.

 Rtn. Narendra Rao gave a presentation on a specially prepared app on facilitating vaccination for the general public for consideration of the task force.To this PRID Ashok Mahajan informed that through V C PDG Ranjan Dhingra the Central Health Ministry is being approached for their approval.

It was decided that we will have such meetings every 4/5 weeks. 

The meeting then concluded with PDG Ranjan Dhingra proposing a vote of thanks summarizing the needed activities and with his suggestions.

Total attendance was 79 .PDG could not attend due to indifferent health. 

SINCERE THANKS TO PDG JAYANT KULKARNI FOR RECORDING THE MINUTES OF THE MEETING. 

Dear District Leaders

Today’s Times of India newspaper reports that to stop wastage, the Public Health Centres (PHCs) in Chennai have started giving vaccines to anyone over the age of 18. This has been advocated by health experts for the past several days as this could prevent the spike in Covid cases.

The new advisory from the Health Ministry that the revised interval between two doses of Covishield vaccine will be 4 to 8 weeks may result in covering more people and protection could be enhanced.

Covid cases are inching towards the 50,000 per day mark in India and situations in USA, Brazil, Russia, UK, France and some more countries are also causing concern. Experts have warned that if the trend of rising cases continues it will confirm India’s second wave of the pandemic.

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad has said that there is a likelihood of virus mutating and new variants coming up and the reason is due to people not wearing the mask and ‘taking it easy.’

Rotary Clubs must immediately take the permission of the local authorities and hold campaigns to motivate people to wear masks.and maintain social distance. The population density in India is the highest per sq.km and for example the Dharavi slum in Mumbai has a population density of 2 lakh persons per sq.km. Compare this with Australia which has a population density of less than 4 persons per sq.km.

Governments in developed countries spend millions of dollars to support the people and most of the jobs are being done remotely. In India, everyone cannot work from home or study remotely. Another lockdown, the experts say, will not make us any more prepared and the virus will still be waiting for us when we open up. We are not helpless against the virus since we have emerged as the world’s largest vaccine maker. Government needs our help in mass vaccination and making people take that jab.

Knowing something is not the same as doing something. Rotarians, like others in the community, may be fed up with Covid and pandemic fatigue might have set in and this is a psychological condition in which they feel demotivated about practices that protect themselves and others. We know what to do to stop this pandemic. Let us do it and support the Government and save lives.

Dear Rotary Leaders ,
The essence of Rotary is to support vulnerable communities in times of need. If we are to grow, we must always focus on those who need our assistance the most. The world needs us now more than ever. The Covid vaccination effort challenges us to help less privileged members of society who are particularly vulnerable.

Individual actions have the greatest bearing on Public Health. Personal hygiene and social distancing and compliance with other guidelines outlined by the World Health Organization can make all the difference in the fight against Covid. We Rotarians should serve as role models by avoiding large gatherings.  As the COVID-19 vaccines are already rolled out, we should get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity, while encouraging others to do the same

We need to support the central & state governments and health organizations in their initiatives to vaccinate the public, and discourage vaccine misinformation and hesitancy.

Rotary is in an ideal position to contribute in this area because of our work in polio eradication and confronting these barriers. We know the effectiveness and value of inoculation, and by our example, we can support the initiative. It is the concerted effort by the private sector, public institutions, development organizations, and society as a whole that will stop this threat.

We need to spread the messages of hope and remind people that together we will prevail, and that the disruption in our lives is not only momentary but it is also a crucial part of continuity.

The pandemic has caused hardship and loss to everyone.  We, in our Rotary clubs, can show the same compassion, care, and support that we are known for through our humanitarian efforts.

The members of Rotary India’s Covid Task Force are always available to support the District and Club leaders in your part of the District. Please make use of this support provided by the senior leadership in India. Let the community know that Rotary cares ,Rotary shares and Rotary serves to change lives .

Ashok Mahajan

Chairman, Rotary India’s Covid Task Force  

Dear District Governors

Vaccine Vacillations
Dear Rotary Leaders,
Ahead of our meeting on March 15, 2021, I am writing this to you to clarify the stand we have to take when we go around requesting people to get vaccinated.
We are not new to resistance when it comes to vaccination and we have successfully overcome those during our PolioPlus campaign. In that case the vaccine was available long before we took up the challenge and our volunteers were only required to know basic details about the only vaccine that was used to prevent polio, its efficacy and safety while being administered to the children.

What we found out when the Covid 19 vaccines were rolled out was that we need to have some knowledge about the different vaccines that seem to be promoted in India and in other parts of the world. Today, people sit at home watching web series reading everything in various media and forming their own opinion. In most instances the opinions are not based on any scientific results published or confirmed by WHO.

1.      AstraZeneca (Covishield in India) is now being administered in India. WHO has rubbished claims about some after effects of the vaccine and certified it as an ‘excellent vaccine’ on March 12, 2021. Drug regulators around the world including European Medicine Agency and Germany’s own regulatory body for medicines have said that this vaccine is good.
2.      Bharat Biotech (Covaxin in India) which is now being used in India is off the clinical trial mode and is authorized for emergency use on par with Covishield according to news released by NITI Aayog,
3.      Pfizer-BioNTech is authorized by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use (Emergency Use Authorisation) in USA for everyone over 16 years.
4.      Moderna is also certified by US FDA for Emergency Use in USA for those above 18 years of age.
5.      Sinovac (China) National Medical Products Administration in China is the regulator for approving this vaccine and they have granted approval for use of this vaccine.
6.      Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) is supposed to be a single dose vaccine and is being tested in USA

These are the most commonly talked about vaccines by the people in India and our advocacy should be restricted to only the first two vaccines that have been authorized to be used in India. People also ask if it is safe to be given to children. Vaccine trials for adults involved many thousands of volunteers and for children’s trial the regulators are on the job. What we know now is children’s response to vaccines changes with age so safe doses will be worked out by the scientists.

What we have to emphasise is while the Covid cases are showing an increase recently, there is a reduction in the case fatality rate (CFR) and it now stands at 1.16%
The communication from the Government of Tamil Nadu to hotels, function halls and other places where public are allowed to come for political, cultural and other activities that they will be held accountable for violation of norms should be taken seriously by Rotarians and while setting an example themselves, they should advise people to exercise restraint while going to such events or completely avoid the events for prevention is better than cure.

Ashok Mahajan
Chairman , Rotary India’s Covid Task Force

Sent from my iPhone

Dear District Governors ,Greetings to you All . 

To Vaccinate or Not – that is not the question today. ‘COVID 19 cases are climbing   in eight States’ is the big headline in the national newspapers today. The report states Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu cumulatively account for 86.25% of the cases in India.

Nearly 17 lakhs Covid vaccine doses were given on March 8, 2021, making it the highest single-day coverage since the beginning of the programme in January 2021, 2.26 crore doses have been administered so far. This is a good sign.

Reports have been published that the Government of Tamil Nadu has started a vaccine awareness drive in Chennai. I compliment Rotary clubs in RI District 3232 who have tied up with hospitals to help Rotarians and their eligible family members to get vaccinated. Many clubs have reported setting up of facilities to help people to get registered for vaccination. Vaccine awareness rallies have also been held by Rotary in District 3132 ,3030 and 3110.  I hope more Districts will join the advocacy task and help the public to get the jab.

Rotarians must remove doubts in the minds of educated people about the safety of the vaccines and tell them not fall into the trap of fake news and unscientific reports that appear in various social media. I was also surprised to hear that some people in India are waiting for the certification from Food and Drug Administration, USA, for the roll out of the much publicized single-dose Covid vaccine from Johnson & Johnson which is still in its clinical trial stage. Any vaccine that is certified is welcome, but a bird in hand is worth two in the bush, as the saying goes and with vaccines available in our country we can stop the spread of Covid, especially among the elderly people. Even if FDA grants an ‘emergency use authorisation’ for the single-dose vaccine what is the guarantee it will be made available here?

Misunderstanding of the term ‘Comorbidities’ has led to vaccination hesitancy. Till the Covid vaccines were rolled out, I had not heard of this terminology and found out that many people have also not heard about this. Today, everyone is talking about comorbidity. The medical definition of the term comorbidity, which is normally used only by medical practitioners in their profession, is when a person has more than one under-lying health conditions present in them at once. Comorbidities can be present in the form of physical or mental conditions according to certified medical literatures. It is imperative that people with comorbidities take the vaccine and this has to be emphasized.
So, promote vaccination in your area. Support the government in its endeavors to fight against COVID-19 and  Save the people. Service is our work and Service Above Self is our motto .

Covid 19 is like Cluster Munition.  All of us have heard about cluster bombs used widely during the past several decades in many conflicts in different parts of the world. The toll it took of people was severe. Today we are again talking about cluster effect and this time it is the Covid 19 virus that is taking the toll of lives.

The news today that Covid 19 cases in India has breached the 18,000 mark again is frightening. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and many more States have reported cases. Lack of fear of disease, pandemic fatigue, missed cases, super-spreading events, gathering of crowds, re-opening of schools and public transport are some of the reasons cited by the Government for this surge. By not adhering to RI’s recommended norms of meeting virtually, at least for the next few months, can we say that Rotarians have also contributed to this state of affairs today?

The virus is surging ahead and does not seem to abate. Newer stains are being reported and these are capable of fast mutation and quick replication. These newer variants, scientists say, are more adaptable to the host environment and through the escape mode, overcome destruction by antibodies.

Those harbouring the virus but are symptomless can transmit the disease as those who are symptomatic. These people move freely in the society and pass the virus to others and they are a threat to society. Remember Mary Mallon, known as ‘Typhoid Mary?’ She was a healthy carrier of the typhoid virus which resulted in spread of the disease. Novel Corona virus with its aerosol transmission is dangerous and unless everyone of us co-operate now a solution to curb the disease will be hard to find.

Every Rotarian who is engaging in self-gratification by organizing and participating in fellowship events during this crucial time must know that our motto is ‘SERVICE ABOVE SELF’ and none of these wasteful expenditures or engaging in fun and frolic can be considered as a good conduct in Rotary today. Everyone must understand that it is Service first when the need of the hour is sacrifice and the expenditure involved in merrymaking can be used to help the Government set up facilities, they are asking from Rotary today. The Government of Tamil Nadu ,West Bengal and U P have  already written to Rotary for assistance in this gigantic program and we hope that more State Governments will accept help form Rotary in the days to come.

Governments all over the world are fighting a strong enemy and vaccination is the need of the hour. So, no right-thinking person must lower their guard and become a menace to the society. Bold initiatives are needed and keeping aside all personal preferences Rotarians should show the world that they can set the example of Service Above Self. The Task Force members are always available for any assistance in carrying out activities concerning Covid 19 . Please make use of their services. Let’s come together to support the Government in its fight against Covid-19. 

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Dear Rotary Leaders ,
The essence of Rotary is to support vulnerable communities in times of need. If we are to grow, we must always focus on those who need our assistance the most. The world needs us now more than ever. The Covid vaccination effort challenges us to help less privileged members of society who are particularly vulnerable.

Individual actions have the greatest bearing on Public Health. Personal hygiene and social distancing and compliance with other guidelines outlined by the World Health Organization can make all the difference in the fight against Covid. We Rotarians should serve as role models by avoiding large gatherings.  As the COVID-19 vaccines are already rolled out, we should get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity, while encouraging others to do the same

We need to support the central & state governments and health organizations in their initiatives to vaccinate the public, and discourage vaccine misinformation and hesitancy.

Rotary is in an ideal position to contribute in this area because of our work in polio eradication and confronting these barriers. We know the effectiveness and value of inoculation, and by our example, we can support the initiative. It is the concerted effort by the private sector, public institutions, development organizations, and society as a whole that will stop this threat.

We need to spread the messages of hope and remind people that together we will prevail, and that the disruption in our lives is not only momentary but it is also a crucial part of continuity.

The pandemic has caused hardship and loss to everyone.  We, in our Rotary clubs, can show the same compassion, care, and support that we are known for through our humanitarian efforts.

The members of Rotary India’s Covid Task Force are always available to support the District and Club leaders in your part of the District. Please make use of this support provided by the senior leadership in India. Let the community know that Rotary cares ,Rotary shares and Rotary serves to change lives .

Ashok Mahajan

Chairman, Rotary India’s Covid Task Force  

Dear District Governors

Vaccine Vacillations
Dear Rotary Leaders,
Ahead of our meeting on March 15, 2021, I am writing this to you to clarify the stand we have to take when we go around requesting people to get vaccinated.
We are not new to resistance when it comes to vaccination and we have successfully overcome those during our PolioPlus campaign. In that case the vaccine was available long before we took up the challenge and our volunteers were only required to know basic details about the only vaccine that was used to prevent polio, its efficacy and safety while being administered to the children.

What we found out when the Covid 19 vaccines were rolled out was that we need to have some knowledge about the different vaccines that seem to be promoted in India and in other parts of the world. Today, people sit at home watching web series reading everything in various media and forming their own opinion. In most instances the opinions are not based on any scientific results published or confirmed by WHO.

1.      AstraZeneca (Covishield in India) is now being administered in India. WHO has rubbished claims about some after effects of the vaccine and certified it as an ‘excellent vaccine’ on March 12, 2021. Drug regulators around the world including European Medicine Agency and Germany’s own regulatory body for medicines have said that this vaccine is good.
2.      Bharat Biotech (Covaxin in India) which is now being used in India is off the clinical trial mode and is authorized for emergency use on par with Covishield according to news released by NITI Aayog,
3.      Pfizer-BioNTech is authorized by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use (Emergency Use Authorisation) in USA for everyone over 16 years.
4.      Moderna is also certified by US FDA for Emergency Use in USA for those above 18 years of age.
5.      Sinovac (China) National Medical Products Administration in China is the regulator for approving this vaccine and they have granted approval for use of this vaccine.
6.      Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) is supposed to be a single dose vaccine and is being tested in USA

These are the most commonly talked about vaccines by the people in India and our advocacy should be restricted to only the first two vaccines that have been authorized to be used in India. People also ask if it is safe to be given to children. Vaccine trials for adults involved many thousands of volunteers and for children’s trial the regulators are on the job. What we know now is children’s response to vaccines changes with age so safe doses will be worked out by the scientists.

What we have to emphasise is while the Covid cases are showing an increase recently, there is a reduction in the case fatality rate (CFR) and it now stands at 1.16%
The communication from the Government of Tamil Nadu to hotels, function halls and other places where public are allowed to come for political, cultural and other activities that they will be held accountable for violation of norms should be taken seriously by Rotarians and while setting an example themselves, they should advise people to exercise restraint while going to such events or completely avoid the events for prevention is better than cure.

Dear District Governors ,Greetings to you All . 

To Vaccinate or Not – that is not the question today. ‘COVID 19 cases are climbing   in eight States’ is the big headline in the national newspapers today. The report states Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu cumulatively account for 86.25% of the cases in India.

Nearly 17 lakhs Covid vaccine doses were given on March 8, 2021, making it the highest single-day coverage since the beginning of the programme in January 2021, 2.26 crore doses have been administered so far. This is a good sign.

Reports have been published that the Government of Tamil Nadu has started a vaccine awareness drive in Chennai. I compliment Rotary clubs in RI District 3232 who have tied up with hospitals to help Rotarians and their eligible family members to get vaccinated. Many clubs have reported setting up of facilities to help people to get registered for vaccination. Vaccine awareness rallies have also been held by Rotary in District 3132 ,3030 and 3110.  I hope more Districts will join the advocacy task and help the public to get the jab.

Rotarians must remove doubts in the minds of educated people about the safety of the vaccines and tell them not fall into the trap of fake news and unscientific reports that appear in various social media. I was also surprised to hear that some people in India are waiting for the certification from Food and Drug Administration, USA, for the roll out of the much publicized single-dose Covid vaccine from Johnson & Johnson which is still in its clinical trial stage. Any vaccine that is certified is welcome, but a bird in hand is worth two in the bush, as the saying goes and with vaccines available in our country we can stop the spread of Covid, especially among the elderly people. Even if FDA grants an ‘emergency use authorisation’ for the single-dose vaccine what is the guarantee it will be made available here?

Misunderstanding of the term ‘Comorbidities’ has led to vaccination hesitancy. Till the Covid vaccines were rolled out, I had not heard of this terminology and found out that many people have also not heard about this. Today, everyone is talking about comorbidity. The medical definition of the term comorbidity, which is normally used only by medical practitioners in their profession, is when a person has more than one under-lying health conditions present in them at once. Comorbidities can be present in the form of physical or mental conditions according to certified medical literatures. It is imperative that people with comorbidities take the vaccine and this has to be emphasized.
So, promote vaccination in your area. Support the government in its endeavors to fight against COVID-19 and  Save the people. Service is our work and Service Above Self is our motto .

Dear District Governors, 

Covid 19 is like Cluster Munition.  All of us have heard about cluster bombs used widely during the past several decades in many conflicts in different parts of the world. The toll it took of people was severe. Today we are again talking about cluster effect and this time it is the Covid 19 virus that is taking the toll of lives.

The news today that Covid 19 cases in India has breached the 18,000 mark again is frightening. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and many more States have reported cases. Lack of fear of disease, pandemic fatigue, missed cases, super-spreading events, gathering of crowds, re-opening of schools and public transport are some of the reasons cited by the Government for this surge. By not adhering to RI’s recommended norms of meeting virtually, at least for the next few months, can we say that Rotarians have also contributed to this state of affairs today?

The virus is surging ahead and does not seem to abate. Newer stains are being reported and these are capable of fast mutation and quick replication. These newer variants, scientists say, are more adaptable to the host environment and through the escape mode, overcome destruction by antibodies.

Those harbouring the virus but are symptomless can transmit the disease as those who are symptomatic. These people move freely in the society and pass the virus to others and they are a threat to society. Remember Mary Mallon, known as ‘Typhoid Mary?’ She was a healthy carrier of the typhoid virus which resulted in spread of the disease. Novel Corona virus with its aerosol transmission is dangerous and unless everyone of us co-operate now a solution to curb the disease will be hard to find.

Every Rotarian who is engaging in self-gratification by organizing and participating in fellowship events during this crucial time must know that our motto is ‘SERVICE ABOVE SELF’ and none of these wasteful expenditures or engaging in fun and frolic can be considered as a good conduct in Rotary today. Everyone must understand that it is Service first when the need of the hour is sacrifice and the expenditure involved in merrymaking can be used to help the Government set up facilities, they are asking from Rotary today. The Government of Tamil Nadu ,West Bengal and U P have  already written to Rotary for assistance in this gigantic program and we hope that more State Governments will accept help form Rotary in the days to come.

Governments all over the world are fighting a strong enemy and vaccination is the need of the hour. So, no right-thinking person must lower their guard and become a menace to the society. Bold initiatives are needed and keeping aside all personal preferences Rotarians should show the world that they can set the example of Service Above Self. The Task Force members are always available for any assistance in carrying out activities concerning Covid 19 . Please make use of their services. Let’s come together to support the Government in its fight against Covid-19.