Wheels Of Progress : Rotary Club of Pune Central empowers young girls with bicycles to ensure access to education -
In a heartwarming initiative aimed at promoting education and empowering young girls from underprivileged backgrounds, the Rotary Club of Pune Central has provided 25 bicycles to school-going girls who walk long distances daily to pursue their education. This generous gesture is not only expected to ease their commute but also to play a crucial role in reducing school dropouts due to transportation challenges.
These bicycles were distributed to girls from economically weaker sections, many of whom travel several kilometers each day to attend school. The lack of affordable and reliable transport has been a major barrier for these young students, often leading to absenteeism or dropping out altogether. With their new bicycles, the girls will now be able to reach the school on time and without fail, giving them a better chance to complete their education.
“This is not just about providing a mode of transport; it’s about giving these girls the freedom to dream, to learn, and to rise to their full potential,” said Brig PKM Raja, Past President of RCPC during the distribution ceremony. “Education is a fundamental right, and no child should be denied it due to distance or poverty.”
The entire project was generously sponsored by Rotary Ann Radhika Malhotra, in memory of her late mother, a woman known for her unwavering belief in women’s empowerment. “My mother always stood for equal opportunities for women,” said Radhika Malhotra, addressing the gathering. “She believed every girl deserved the chance to shape her own destiny. Sponsoring these bicycles is my way of honoring her legacy and ensuring her values live on.”
This initiative goes beyond school attendance. It aims to instill a sense of independence, confidence, and resilience in these young girls, equipping them not just for their academic journey but also for life’s daily challenges. By removing a major obstacle from their path, the Rotary Club of Pune Central hopes to help them stay in school, complete their education, and secure their rightful place in society.
Rotary Community Core leaders, teachers, and students present at the event expressed deep gratitude for the support. Many described the moment as “life-changing” for the girls and praised the Rotary Club for identifying such a critical need.
As the girls proudly rode their new bicycles home, their smiles told a story of hope, strength, and possibility — a powerful reminder that a small act of kindness can pave the way for a brighter future, made possible by the magic of Rotary.
