March brings with it a powerful theme of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, and what better way for our district to embody this theme than by inaugurating a significant project in this Area of Focus? This week marks the inauguration of Global Grant "GG2346114 Siksha Aur Suraksha - Toilet Infrastructure for Less Privileged Students,” sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Madras Magnum and EClub of Greater Sydney. This project is poised to address the lack of proper sanitation and hygiene facilities, particularly affecting girls' attendance. In Chennai, the construction of 8 toilet blocks will benefit 3600 girl students and 7500+ students overall from lower-income groups. These improvements are not just about infrastructure; they are about boosting school enrollment, improving community relations, and potentially paving the way for additional infrastructure enhancements.
 
We, as Rotarians from District 9685, should take immense pride in this achievement, as each one of us has contributed in some way through the allocation of DDF. Our district stands at number one in our Zone for Global Grant Participation, with 15 approved Global Grants to the value of USD 1.13 Million. This is a testament to our commitment to creating hope in numerous communities, providing them with access to healthcare, education, and other essential opportunities.
To continue this impactful work, growing our seed bank is critical. I humbly request Presidents, secretaries, treasurers, and foundation chairs who have not yet made a contribution to Our Foundation – Our Charity, to lead by example and make a contribution using Rotary direct. It's a simple and easy way that almost 195 Rotarians from our district have utilized to create hope in our world. If you need assistance navigating the Rotary website, please reach out so that we can assist you.
For clubs that are yet to contribute, I urge you not to wait until the end of the Rotary Year. Do it today; the earlier we grow our seed bank, the greater the outcome for our Foundation. Thank you to the 82 Paul Harris Society Members for their continued support and trust placed in our Rotarians to use their donations effectively year after year.
 
Congratulations to the clubs that have completed their district grants. For those yet to complete, please ensure you finish your project on time so that we can submit our final report. This will allow us to commence our application for the following Rotary year, enabling you to create hope with the magic of Rotary. Let's spread the word with a post on Rotary Showcase of your wonderful work.
Your Foundation team members are here to assist you and your members in navigating the grant applications. Please reach out to us, and we will be more than happy to be a guest speaker to share what your fellow Rotarians are doing with the contributions you and your club have helped build our Seed bank.
 
Last Sunday, Ahsha and I had the honor of participating in the Polio Vaccination Campaign in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. We visited two locations: a primary health center and the central Bus Terminus of Madurai. It was an incredible experience to contribute to each Rotarian's dream of a world free of Polio and ensuring no child is left behind.
If you ever have the chance to join a Polio vaccination day anywhere in the world, I urge you to seize the opportunity. Being part of such a historic cause is something to be proud of, knowing that your efforts will have a lasting impact beyond our lifetimes.
 
In Tamil Nadu, 43,051 centers vaccinated over 5,635,000 infants with the oral polio vaccine. This achievement fills us with pride and joy, knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of children and communities. Remember, continuous support for PolioPlus Funds is crucial to realizing our dream. Together, we can make a polio-free world a reality.
Together, let's continue to make a difference and create a positive impact in our communities and the world.
 
PP Haran Ramachandran
District 9685 Rotary Foundation Chair
0419 980 529
 
PP David Rivett 
Grants Subcommittee Chair
0418 410 106