Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jul 7: Rtn B Rajaram Bhat took charge as the fifth governor of Rotary International district 3182 on Wednesday, July 1. B N Ramesh, the former governor handed over the post.

Sharing his experience as the immediate former district governor of the club B N Ramesh said, “It was a tremendous year. But as the pandemic hit, it gave us new challenges. We started working more virtually. I had an excellent team of office bearers who supported me in delivering the services. We conducted virtual training sessions which were a new concept. All the clubs have done excellent work. I thank each and every Rotarian for their service. In the coming days, we also have to increase membership."

Taking charge as the governor for the district 3182 Rtn Rajaram Bhat accepted the post with humility and gratitude. “I thank everyone for selecting me as the governor. In 1985 I joined the Rotary in Kallianpur unit and I am still continuing as a member of the same club for the past 35 years. In these years I have been part of many activities. More than 250 computers have been donated to nearly 140 schools. I have arranged many other facilities like solar light, washbasin facilities etc. I was the liaison officer for Kodagu Disaster Management project in which we collected nearly Rs 27 lac for the relief work. Encasing the opportunities and growing together is what I have learnt from Rotary. This has helped me as the governor,” he said.

“Challenge gives opportunity. During these challenging times, we have worked for COVID relief measures. We conducted 12 vertical meetings virtually. Rotary opens opportunities. Let us strengthen Rotary through membership. Quality is more important than quantity. Ladies membership should also increase,” he added.

Project handbook for 2020-21 released on the occasion:

Dr H Vinodh Bhat, executive vice president MAHE, chief guest for the program addressed the gathering and said, “It is the day 525 when the Rotary governors take charge.  It is the beginning of a new year for Rotarians. Power is always grabbed, but in Rotary, power is handed over in a democratic way.  This year’s theme is ‘Rotary opens opportunities’. Even though we have served in many fields there are still opportunities to serve more. There are global funds, local funds to be used in need. Local funds can also be used for global needs. The structure of Rotary districts has changed tremendously in years. It is time for us to show the world how Rotary can grow. Back then we were recipient clubs but today we too are contributing towards the Rotary funds. For the last 5 years, the second-largest contributor has been India. We should strive to become the first contributor in the world,” he said. B N Ramesh was also honoured on the occasion.
 
Jnana Vasanth Shetty, trainer welcomed the gathering. Allen Lewis, district administrative secretary rendered the vote of thanks. Ramachandra Murthy Surekha, incoming president and First lady Adiraj Bharthesh, councillor Dr Jaya Gauri, DGND and others were present on the occasion.