Highlights and review of District events
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Foundation Seminar Report – “NIRMAAN”
The Rotary Foundation Seminar NIRMAAN came alive on 28th November 2025 at the scenic Boat Club, Pune, where the Rotary Club of Poona hosted an inspiring and energetic gathering of Rotarians. Convened by PP Rtn. Kailash Monga, the event brought together distinguished leaders and changemakers committed to strengthening Rotary’s impact.
The Chief Guest for the evening was RI Director M. Muruganandam (MMM), whose dynamic presence set the tone for the seminar. Joining him as Guest of Honor was Caroline Kwak, Regional Grant Officer for District 3131 and nine additional districts across India, as well as one in Thailand. RRFC Surendra Bomireddy also graced the event, while DRFC Pankaj Shah played a pivotal role in orchestrating the seminar’s success.
The purpose of NIRMAAN was clear and compelling: to inspire Rotarians to engage wholeheartedly in Rotary Foundation giving and to highlight the transformative opportunities that Foundation programs bring to clubs and communities.
The event opened with DG Santosh Marathe, who shared an encouraging snapshot of District 3131’s progress. This was followed by DRFC Pankaj Shah’s insightful overview of the district’s impressive Foundation contributions over the past few years. In recognition of exemplary performance, the Chief Guest felicitated the top-performing clubs of RY 2025–26 with trophies and certificates—an energizing moment that celebrated dedication and teamwork.
Chief Guest MMM then took the stage, captivating the audience with his signature storytelling style. He emphasized the life-changing power of donating to the Rotary Foundation and shared inspiring anecdotes, including his remarkable achievement of earning eight Guinness World Records during TRF’s centennial year. His message was simple yet profound: everything is possible when you make up your mind to act.
RGO Caroline Kwak provided valuable clarity on the process and requirements of drafting Global Grant applications, encouraging clubs to reach out to her whenever they face challenges. RRFC Surendra followed with heartfelt reflections on his Rotary journey and the extraordinary service being carried out by clubs worldwide. Soon after, top individual donors and Assistant Governors were honored for their contributions.
A standout moment of the seminar was the presentation by EPNC Dr. Girish Gune, who shared insights from his recent medical mission to Kashmir. His moving narrative underscored the ongoing need for support toward Rotary’s fight against polio, inspiring attendees to continue contributing to this vital cause. Throughout the session, IPDG Shital Shah felicitated achievers of RY 2024–25.
Later, PP Hemant Jere and Dhanashree Jog delivered focused presentations on Global Grants and CSR initiatives, respectively. They also recognized clubs that had demonstrated exceptional progress in securing Global Grants and CSR funding.
The event concluded with a warm Vote of Thanks from the host club, followed by a delightful fellowship dinner on the terrace—offering Rotarians the perfect opportunity to connect, celebrate achievements, and look forward to new beginnings.
