FROM LEADER'S DESK

Dear Friends,

DGND Rtn Santosh Marathe, who joined Rotary Club of Poona West in January 1996, is a second-generation Rotarian – his father, Late Madhubhau Marathe, was the Chartered Treasurer of RC Poona West in RY 1969-70. He served in Rotary for 45 years. Rtn Santosh was the President in 2000-01.

Over the years, his unwavering commitment and remarkable contributions have been nothing short of extraordinary. His distinguished service within the District has been sought after, with numerous District Governors humbly requesting his invaluable expertise.

Having collaborated with over 15 DGs of 3130/3131, Rtn Santosh stands adorned with a treasure trove of experiences and insights, fostering profound growth and collective progress.

He has established 103 Happy Schools under his visionary leadership in the past 5 years, which is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the betterment of education. Through his Clubs resolute efforts, countless lives have been transformed, illuminating a brighter path for the young minds of tomorrow.

A paragon of knowledge and expertise, Rtn Santosh has graciously conducted numerous enlightening sessions for various clubs, providing invaluable guidance to their BOD and Committees.

Besides him stands his beloved wife, PP Rtn Dr Tanuuja, a distinguished serving AG in current RY. With the dawn of the coming year, she is all set to assume the role of Co-Director Global Grants, fortifying their joint commitment to Rotary global initiatives.

Both Rtn Santosh and PP Dr Tanuuja are independently Major Donor Level 1 to TRF and together are Level 2 Major Donors to TRF.

His company, Phoenix Knowledge Management Pvt. Ltd., has been providing customized enterprise applications in Finance, Supply Chain, and Analytics using a US Patented Digital Ledger (Pvt Permissioned Blockchain) technology to large corporates including ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Asian Paints, Anchor, and TAFE to name a few.

Beyond the realms of Rotary, Rtn Santosh passion for nature, marine ecology, wildlife, birdwatching, environment education, awareness and nature photography has unfolded since 1979.

He has led and conducted many Nature Camps for Children in Maharashtra, UP, and HP. Each camp, hosting a minimum of 50 students aged 10-18, has kindled the flame of environmental consciousness, nurturing the hearts and minds of the next generation.

Furthermore, Rtn Santosh has actively participated in Leopard census camps with the Forest Dept. at Bhimashankar.

In every facet of his life, Rtn Santosh Marathe embodies the epitome of a true Rotarian – dedicated, compassionate, and tirelessly committed to effecting positive change. His exceptional leadership, boundless goodwill and unwavering belief in Rotary transformative power serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to join in the noble quest of creating a better world.

Thanks and Regards,
DG Santosh Marathe
District Governor

Dear Friends,

On behalf of the District Youth Service Team, RY 25-26, I wish to extend by best wishes and heartiest congratulations to Rtr PHF Dwijesh Nashikkar, in the leadership role of DRR. We are confident that during the forthcoming year he along with the Rotaract Council and all Rotaract Clubs will surpass the set benchmarks to raise the Rotaract Community, RID 3131 to newer heights.

Within Rotary, YOUTH SERVICE has always been an important Avenue of Service. Several programs empowering the Youth towards their holistic development are planned and executed annually. Recent guidelines from RI have enabled Rotaract Clubs to perform independently to a large extent and thereby enabling them scale newer heights. Association with Rotary Clubs through service projects and otherwise, is potentially beneficial.

Community Service is the core of Rotary. Rotaract Clubs are ‘Partners In Service’ and they continue to contribute immensely, through their inherent skills and abilities. Evolving with the changing times, quick adaptability as per present needs can ensure that Rotaract Clubs can become more vibrant, which in turn will attract more members towards membership growth. Nothing keeps a team more motivated than knowing they can be a part of something that’s bigger than themselves.

We have a collective responsibility to ensure that the goals set by the DRR and the District Youth Service Team are executed in a timely manner. In achieving this, I strongly urge each Club President and the respective BoD to take up this responsibility whole-heartedly. While Rotaract Clubs can plan and execute several of their own projects, but working in synergy for executing innovative, scalable, sustainable and measurable projects will bring more talent and knowledge to the table. Needless to say, that new ideas and service projects are most welcome.

RID 3131 happens to be among the list of few notable Rotary Districts, globally. Over the years this has been achieved due to the consistent efforts of past leaders and dedicated Rotarians. Thus I truly believe this should be a motivating factor for all of us to scale higher and set new benchmarks.

I once again extend by best wishes to the entire Rotaract Community for RIY 2025-26. We have a dynamic DRR in Rtr Dwijesh and guided by our District Governor, Rtn Santosh Marathe, who comes with an enormous experience in leading our district to new frontiers.

Rtn. Sanjay Karwa
DRCC, RY 25-26.

Dear Friends,

Rtrn Tina Rattra from RCP Lokmanyanagar joined Rotary in 2016. In a short span of time got involved in the club and district teams due to my corporate background and flair in trainings. Since 2018 I have been a part of the district events conducting experiential games for all incoming district officers and presidents. Became the President of my club in 2019-20. During the Pandemic joined hands with my friends in the corporate and lions club to do a unique facebook campaign “donate a meal” and collectively this group raised 25 lacs and did 28 projects during covid. I was also the 1st president to ever hold a business conclave “Bizvaganza” in our district which received high accolades.

As District chair in 2020-21 under Community and Economic development worked in creating awareness for the LGBTQ community and helped 5 transgenders get jobs in the corporate. In 2022-23 held the Post of AG for zone 6. In 2023-24 became the 1st Director for DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) in Dis 3131. Also got certified an RLI facilitator during this year. In 2024-25 as District secretary special events organized an inter district car rally with 5 partnering districts, including other flagship projects. Her accolades include being nominated as Nari Shakti by the DG in 23-24 and in 24-25 was a recipient of “Avenues of Service” by RI.

On the Professional front I am a serial entrepreneur. Successfully ran my Agro Resort- Sadabahar Moments for 15 yrs before renting it out. Started TTI (Tinas Transthought Institute) in 2017 which now is “Tina’s Transthought India LLP”. Till date have trained 15000 + people. As a facilitator, Coach and Consultant, work with multiple Indian and international brands.

Am blessed with 2 kids. Daughter Tanvi is currently perusing her future ambitions in Canada. Son Arjun after completing his graduation in Hotel Management has his own start up called Buzz blend. All 3 of us are dominated and ruled by our cat Waffels who turned 4 yrs this year.

Message for the Rotractor’s:

Blessed are those who have an opportunity to do more than their daily routine of work and play. The most enriching moments of my life our when I am learning from someone, doing something or adding value to a thing, place or human. The time is “now” for us to do our bit and not wait for some right moment or right time or place or bank balance.
We are fortunate to have the platform of Rotary. Let’s come together, learn from each other, collaborate and do things that matter. While we look to transform lives, let the Magic of Rotary transform us, unite us and make us better human beings. I am very excited about what this role as Youth Director will unfold for me, a little nervous too since it’s a huge responsibility. I look forward to your support and collaboration in the coming year. Let’s stretch ourselves beyond limits, break the glass ceiling, get innovative and let the Magic of Rotary take over.

Rtn. Tina Rattra
Youth Service Director

Warm Rotaract Greetings!

Its quite a journey, isnt it? From a final-year BCA student in 2015, stepping into the unknown world of Rotaract, to now leading as your District Rotaract Representative. Like many of you, I started without a clue, never imagining the profound impact this movement would have, shaping me through friendship, networking, personal development, and the immense satisfaction of contributing to a better community.

Rotaract calls upon each of us to be curious, eager to embrace challenges, and equally mindful of the paths we choose. Its about charting a course for our own growth, being vigilant about who we align with, ensuring those connections foster development rather than becoming a hindrance.

As your District Rotaract Representative, I am thrilled to contribute to this years District Directory – a vital resource that reflects the vibrant spirit and collective impact of our Rotaract family.

I firmly believe in the immense power and boundless creativity of youth. What we often need is simply the right platform to showcase that potential. Rotaract is precisely that space – a welcoming environment to step up, take initiative, and yes, even make mistakes. Here, errors are not judged but embraced as invaluable lessons on the path to personal development and betterment.

Todays youth wields unprecedented technological power. In India, with over 65% of the population under the age of 35, we are a nation brimming with potential fueled by digital connectivity. As of early 2024, India boasted over 700 million internet users, a number that continues to grow exponentially. This digital prowess offers us an incredible advantage. Consider tools like ChatGPT – lets use them not to replace our own thinking but to refine our messages, enhance our understanding, and amplify our impact. Its about leveraging technology to become more effective leaders and impactful change-makers.

This year, alongside our impactful community service projects, we will place a significant emphasis on Professional Development and Personal Growth. Recognizing the aspirations of Indias dynamic youth, we will actively promote initiatives designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. Expect a calendar filled with enriching industry visits to gain firsthand exposure to various sectors, skill-based workshops to enhance your practical abilities (ranging from digital marketing and financial literacy to communication and project management), and focused sessions on self-grooming and leadership development. Well delve into areas like effective communication, personal branding, and time management – essential skills for navigating both professional and personal landscapes. Let this directory be your guide to connecting with clubs and members who are actively organizing and participating in these invaluable learning experiences. By investing in our professional growth and personal mastery, we not only benefit ourselves but also strengthen the collective capacity of Rotaract to create even greater positive change in our communities and beyond.

This year, our focus will be guided by A.U.R.A.: Adapt, Unite, Resilience, Aspire.

• Adapt: The world is constantly evolving. We must be agile, embracing new ideas and technologies to stay relevant and effective in our service.


• Unite: Inspired by the RI Presidents message to UNITE FOR GOOD, we will actively seek collaborations with our parent Rotary clubs. Imagine the synergy we can create by combining the energy and innovation of Rotaract with the experience and resources of Rotary! This directory will be instrumental in fostering these vital connections. Furthermore, lets explore partnerships beyond Rotary, aligning with the UNs Sustainable Development Goals and contributing to a larger global impact.


• Resilience:Challenges are inevitable, but our strength lies in our ability to bounce back, learn from setbacks, and persevere in our mission to serve.


• Aspire: Lets not limit our vision. We will encourage ambitious projects, foster innovation, and inspire each other to reach new heights in our personal and collective endeavors.

“Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” — Jim Rohn

Dear Changemakers,

A brand new Rotaract year is upon us—and with it, a fresh canvas to dream bigger, serve louder, and lead stronger!

This year, we embrace AURA—Adapt, Unite, Resilience, Aspire—as more than just a theme; it’s a mindset that will define how we grow, serve, and lead.

Rotaract has always stood as a platform for change, but it is also a powerful catalyst for professional development. Let’s use this year to sharpen our skills, push boundaries, and create pathways that shape not only our communities but our careers as well.

Let this be a year of growth and grit—where we challenge ourselves, uplift one another, and turn aspirations into action. Let’s:

- Adapt with a learner mindset
- Unite with purpose and collaboration
- Show resilience in the face of challenges
- And aspire to be the leaders our world needs—both professionally and personally

Together, we will foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and impact that echoes far beyond our district. Here to a year of inspiration, action, and incredible transformation.

The future is ours to shape—let’s make it count!

Warm regards,
Rtr. Niharika Chaturvedi
District General Secretary
Rotaract District Organisation of Rotary International District 3131

Dear PHF DRR Dwijesh Nashikkar, Honourable Council Members and My Fellow Rotaractors

As I pen down this message for this year’s District Directory, I’m filled with both pride and gratitude. Pride—for the path we’ve walked as Rotaractors. Gratitude—for the endless opportunities that have helped shape the person I am today.

The theme for RIY 2025–26—A.U.R.A. (Adopt. Unite. Resilience. Aspire.)—is more than just an acronym. It’s a call to action. A mindset. A movement. Let’s aspire to dream boldly. Unite for causes larger than ourselves. Be resilient through every challenge. And adopt values that will shape us into empathetic, and purpose-driven leaders.

Reflecting on my own Rotaract journey over the past 10 years, I can proudly say it has been a blessing in disguise. Every role, every event, and every experience, whether at the club level or the district— has helped shape not just my leadership skills but my professional and personal outlook. I have always cherished being a Rotaractor who works on the ground—where real fellowship is built, where real impact happens, because real learning happens on ground—through action, not just intention.

From 2013 to 2025, I’ve had the privilege to watch RID 3131 blossom. Each year, under the leadership of visionary DRRs and district leaders, our movement has pushed boundaries in service, innovation, and fellowship. And now, with DRR Dwijesh Nashikkar at the helm, I feel an overwhelming sense of excitement for what lies ahead. DRR Dwijesh, your clarity of thought and unwavering commitment promise a transformative year for RID 3131—a year that will not only create impact but set new benchmarks for generations of Rotaractors.

To every Council Member and Club President reading this—embrace every responsibility with humility. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Learn from them. Grow through them. You are the heartbeat of this district, and your teamwork will be the foundation of inspiration, innovation, and impact.

Rotaract has always been an incubator of leadership, It teaches you how to manage people, build relationships, work under pressure, and most importantly, lead with empathy. Let the Four-Way Test be your compass—it will not only shape your events but transform your perspective as a human being. And As we step into this new RIY together, I urge you to adopt a habit in your daily routine that nurtures our community. Work with dedication and trust the process, And most of all never stop being kind - it’s your greatest superpower.

Let’s be UNSTOPPABLE—in service, in fellowship, and in learning. Let us truly UNITE FOR GOOD, and create an A.U.R.A of compassion, excellence, and togetherness across RID 3131 and beyond.

Thank you for this opportunity and my best wishes to DRR Dwijesh and the entire team. I am ALWAYS a phone call away for any guidance you will need.

With Rotaract love and solidarity,

PHF. Rtr. Dr. Karishma Awari
District Rotaract Representative | 2026-27
RID 3131

To my Dearest friends in Rotaract,

Stepping into RIY 2025-26, I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank the great effort of all the Rotaractors who are creating a positive influence in the society. Your selfless actions, perseverance and achievements have made this organisation great and achieve wonders. Originally Rotaracts prime agenda was to develop Leadership and entrepreneurship skills amongst young adults with fellowship through service. Today, we are much bigger than that, we have been ELEVATED. We are the young professionals who are on the journey to make this world a better place to live in by BEING THE INSPIRATION and by UNITING FOR GOOD.

I never sought anything in Rotaract and I never said no to anything. This is what I keep telling everyone: a Rotaractor is a volunteer, and being a volunteer means yes, I want to do something. We become leaders at a very young age. Success at a young age is fantasy but at the same time more people are waiting for your failure. It is in that moment, where a LEADER strives to be the best. DRR Dwijesh and I have a very special affinity because we began our Rotaract adventure together as Charter President and Secretary in 2015. We grew through what we went through. Our Rotaract journey has enabled us to advance professionally while also growing personally. This year DRR Dwijesh has surrounded himself with a diverse team seeking out people with variations of talent and contrasting aptitudes— people who will bring their very best ideas for the individual as well as community growth. We have to do projects that have an impact on the global level. We come from one of the largest countries in the world, and Rotaracts work today is absolutely having an impact on the global level. There are so many opportunities waiting for us that will help us change the world. Let’s seize them together and get ready to open doors to achieving greater things.

Ive already had the chance to engage with the core team and hear about their plans and vision for this year. All I could say is that the digitalisation era is about to begin this year. I am delighted to learn and participate in the next events, and I hope you are too. All it takes is a little change of perspective and you begin to see a whole new world. Its rightly said, the energy you give off is the energy you attract. Your AURA speaks louder than your words.

John Wooden said, Dont give up your dreams or your dreams will give up on you. I wish that all of our vibrant Rotaractors collectively dream for a better world and our actions should make a constructive difference around us. A special thanks to DRR Dwijesh, DGS Niharika, DLF Drishti and the entire team of RIY 2025-26, for providing me this opportunity to address our vibrant Rotaractors through our Rotaract Annual Directory 2025-26.

Lastly, I encourage all Rotaractors to collaborate, engage, enjoy, and join our commitment to change.

Thank you for everything you do and will do. My door is always open for you.

Regards,
PHF PDRR Akshay More
DRR & Council Mentor | RIY 2024-26

To my Dearest friends in Rotaract,

As I pen this message, my heart brims with gratitude and pride. Serving as the District Rotaract Representative of RID 3131 has been nothing short of a transformative journey, one that took me from the vibrant city of Pune to the snow-clad terrains of Kashmir, where I stood not as a tourist, but as a volunteer at a Rotary Mega Surgical Project. That moment, amidst the Himalayan silence, I witnessed the truest essence of Rotaract; seva beyond self, borders, and comfort.

The year of RUDRA wasn’t just a theme, it was a movement. A movement that saw our district make its mark nationally and globally. From breaking records with Project Drishti, the India Book of Records winning inclusive eye donation pledge campaign, to hosting over 27 districts - 123 delegates by our very own rotaract clubs during ganeshotsav as part of International Service avenue, to curating perhaps the most professionally executed district conference with 17 thought leaders including CEOs, ministers, and Rotary-Rotaract leadership, we raised the bar for what Rotaract can achieve.

Our membership strength soared, with more than 15 new rotaract clubs, we fostered inter-district collaborations, public image and brand rotaract were catered to and planted seeds of sustainable change through projects aligned with the Rotary Foundation’s causes. This is a reminder to all future leaders, think beyond the year. Aspire for Global Grants, CSR Grants, and long-term community impact. Because when service is visionary, its ripples last generations.

But beyond the achievements, here’s a message to every Rotaractor reading this well curated directory: Rotaract is not just an extracurricular. It is your gateway to becoming a changemaker, a public speaker, a negotiator, a fundraiser, a mentor, and above all, a compassionate leader. The skills you gain here like project execution, conflict resolution, governance, financial stewardship are the very skills top employers seek and communities respect. Don’t wait to “grow up” to take Rotaract seriously. Take it seriously now, and it will shape your career, your network, and your future as a Rotarian.

To PHF DRR Dwijesh and Team AURA, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. DRR Dwijesh, your calm clarity, seasoned experience in Rotaract and deep conviction gives me immense hope for the year ahead. I am especially grateful to be serving under your leadership once again, this time as the District Learning Facilitator, a role I take on with great joy and commitment.

Dear Rotaractors, always remember: titles fade, but impact remains. Lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and carry the AURA of this movement with pride as Rotaractors Unite for Development, Reach and Action.

In fellowship and service,
PHF IPDRR Drishti Singh
Immediate Past DRR, RID 3131 | District Learning Facilitator – RIY 2025-26

My Dear Rotaractors,
Warm Rotaract Greetings!!!

As we begin a new Rotaract year in Rotary International District 3131, I feel proud and excited to share a few words with you. Every new year brings a fresh chance to lead, grow, and serve. This is your moment to shine.

Before we look ahead, it’s important to appreciate the year we’ve just completed. Under the leadership of PHF. IPDRR. Drishti Singh, RID 3131 witnessed a transformative period. Since taking charge on July 1st, Drishti has worked diligently to streamline and revitalize our administrative processes. With her keen eye for detail and dedication, she has pruned away the overgrowth of outdated practices—like clearing the tangled brush after a wild storm—to reveal a well-tended garden ready to flourish.

Drawing from my experience since 2008 in Rotaract, I have learned that collars don’t give you any power. It is your work, presence, dedication, and willingness that make you important in any organization. True leadership is defined not by the title you hold but by the impact you create.

Now, we look forward with excitement as DRR. Dwijesh Nashikkar takes charge. He is known for his disciplined, calm, and thoughtful leadership. Dwijesh brings a positive vibe wherever he goes and truly believes in teamwork and inclusiveness. With him at the helm, this year is sure to be filled with collaboration and progress. This year, we come together as Team Aura. The word “Aura” means a unique energy or glow—and that’s what we want to create together. Each club, each leader, each Rotaractor adds to this light. Together, we will create something powerful, something memorable.

To all the incoming Rotaract Presidents: You are the driving force of your clubs, but you are not alone. You are part of something bigger—Team Aura. Let’s support each other, work as one, and grow as a family. That’s how we make a real difference.

This year’s Rotary International theme, given by RI President Rtn. Mario César Martins de Camargo, is “Unite for Good.” His message is simple yet powerful—when we come together with kindness and purpose, we can do great things. Let’s carry that message in our hearts and actions throughout the year.

In fellowship and service,
PDRR Arjun Dev
DRR RIY 2016-17 | RID 3131
Chairman - Rotasia 2018, Rotaract Zone Institute | Zones 1B,4,5,6,7