Rotary Club of Bombay North Pledges $3.5M for Mumbai Healthcare, Kashmir School
The Rotary Club of Bombay North has announced a US$3.5 million investment in medical, educational, and social welfare programs, which includes funding free pediatric heart surgeries at the SRCC Children's Hospital in Mumbai. The commitments were unveiled during the installation ceremony of the club's new President, Hemangini Desai, marking the launch of the club's Regal Sapphire Year 2026–27.
Among the major projects announced is the construction of a fully equipped school in Kashmir, which will be built in partnership with the Indian Army.
For regional development, the club is launching a solar power and water supply initiative across 10 villages in the Palghar district. This project is designed to assist local farmers in tripling their agricultural output by enabling them to grow up to three crops a year, up from a single annual crop.
In healthcare, the club reaffirmed its commitment to providing free medical care. This includes pediatric heart surgeries in partnership with the SRCC Children's Hospital in Mumbai, alongside free cataract operations through a partnership with Netralaya in Dehradun.
During her inaugural address, Desai outlined her vision of meaningful service, stronger fellowship, and sustainable, innovative community initiatives. The installation ceremony was attended by District Governor Rajan Dua, Priti Dua, and actor Smita Jayakar. Members of the club later pledged their full support to President Desai and Honorary Secretary Dr. Vidya Mukund as they embark on the new term.
The evening also featured the presentation of the Vocational Service Award to Habil Khorakiwala in recognition of his contributions to healthcare innovation and nation-building. Under Khorakiwala's leadership, Wockhardt achieved a breakthrough with Zaynich, the first New Chemical Entity developed entirely by an Indian pharmaceutical company to receive approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration. The achievement was highlighted as a milestone in India's transition from "Make in India" to "Innovate in India."
