We take immense pride in the fact that four Indian Rotarians have adorned the chair of President, Rotary International, bringing global recognition to our nation and to our spirit of service. We also remember, with deep respect, our President Nominee who could not assume office due to health reasons, yet remains an enduring part of our Rotary legacy.
Our contributions extend far beyond leadership. Across India, Rotarians have built schools, colleges, hospitals, blood banks, dialysis centers, and countless other community infrastructures that continue to serve humanity with compassion and dignity.
For many years, India has proudly stood second in the world — next only to the United States — in contributions to The Rotary Foundation. This reflects not only our generosity, but also our steadfast faith in the Foundation’s mission of advancing peace, goodwill, and understanding through service.
And as we look to the horizon, we can say with confidence and conviction —the future of Rotary in India will be even brighter than its past.
Service That Transforms
Among our greatest triumphs stands the eradication of polio.
There was a time when India was one of the most challenging countries in this battle, yet through the partnership between Rotary, the Government of India, WHO, UNICEF, and millions of volunteers, we achieved what once seemed impossible.
In 2014, India was declared polio-free, a victory that remains one of Rotary’s proudest moments — a testament to perseverance, collaboration, and faith.
Beyond polio, Rotary in India continues to transform communities through:
Clean water and sanitation projects restoring dignity to villages,Health missions providing care to the underserved,Education and literacy programs empowering future generations,Environmental and sustainability initiatives, andDisaster relief efforts bringing hope in times of despair.Rotary in India has not just built infrastructure — it has built trust, compassion, and resilience.
The Heart of Rotary in India
Our partnership with The Rotary Foundation tells the story of both generosity and impact.
Through global and district grants, we’ve funded heart surgeries for children, provided e-learning tools to rural schools, and built hospitals and dialysis centers that save lives every day.
Our belief is simple yet profound:
Every rupee given to The Rotary Foundation is an investment in a more equitable, compassionate, and peaceful world.
We are also nurturing the next generation through Rotaract, Interact, and RYLA — programs that are shaping young minds into leaders driven by empathy and integrity.
A Spirit That Unites
What truly makes Rotary in India special is not just the scale of our service, but the spirit behind it.
From teachers to business leaders, doctors to engineers — all unite in one shared mission: to make a difference.
Our work reflects India’s timeless philosophy, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “The world is one family.”
In this spirit, Indian Rotarians have reached across borders, partnering with clubs in Africa, South Asia, and beyond — sharing not only resources but friendship and love.
Looking Ahead
Respected President Francisco, as we welcome you to India, we reaffirm our commitment to continue building on the proud legacy of Rotary — to strengthen The Rotary Foundation and to serve humanity with renewed energy and faith.
The journey of Rotary in India is a journey of faith — faith in people, faith in service, and faith in the idea that together, we can change the world.
As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
That is the spirit that drives every Rotarian in India — and it is the spirit that will guide us as we march confidently into the next century of Rotary service.
Thank you.