by Rtn Ajay Gupta
The Rotary Zonal Institute for Zones 4, 5, 6, and 7 took place from December 6–8, 2024, in Kochi, Kerala, India, drawing over 1,200 delegates. Among them were more than 800 members of the College of Governors representing 44 Rotary districts from India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, including Past, Present, and Future District Governors.
The event was a momentous occasion for ESRAG’s South Asia (SA) Chapter, which showcased its achievements and membership development milestones. ESRAG SA began the year with 120 members and has now grown to 636 members—a success warmly appreciated by Rotary leaders.
A Warm Welcome and Green Gifts
The ESRAG team had the honour of pinning Rotary International (RI) President Stephanie Urchick, Past RI President Shekhar Mehta, RI Director and ESRAG member Annirudha Roy Choudhary, and RI Director Elects Nagesh and Muruganandam with ESRAG pins. These leaders proudly wore the pins throughout the event.
Adding a sustainable touch, ESRAG presented them with coasters and calendars made from waste cloth. These eco-friendly gifts were crafted by ESRAGian N. Prakash, with support from ESRAGian S. Sundaram, Chair of ESRAG 3203. The initiative was coordinated by DG 3203 Suresh Babu, demonstrating a practical example of waste-to-value transformation.
RI Stephany Urchick at Rotary Zonal Instittute
Recognizing Changemakers
One of the event’s highlights was the presentation of the “Changemaker Award” to Mr. J.V. Ratnam for his exceptional contributions to environmental conservation. The award, which included a cash prize, was selected from 53 applications across India by a jury that included ESRAG SA Chair, PDG Ajay Gupta.
Celebrating J.V. Ratnam’s Green Legacy
Mr. Ratnam has dedicated 36 years to environmental and social service. His impressive achievements include:
- Creating and distributing 22 million seed balls using naval helicopters.
- Organizing beach cleanups with 3,000 volunteers.
- Setting up 80,000 sparrow nests.
- Training educators and students on native seed conservation and biodiversity.
- Promoting sustainable practices like rooftop gardens, clay Ganesh idols, and nature-based farming.
Mr. Ratnam’s work also extends to innovative efforts such as the Green Ambulance initiative, facilitating greenery development and indigenous seed exchange programs without monetary transactions.
A Testament to Rotary’s Commitment
The Zonal Institute in Kochi highlighted Rotary’s focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. ESRAG SA’s achievements exemplify Rotary’s commitment to creating a better planet, aligning with its mission to serve humanity while preserving the environment.
This successful event not only celebrated Rotary’s leadership but also demonstrated the power of collaboration for a sustainable future.
