Free distribution of 2425 umbrellas under 'Chatrachaya' initiative by Rotary District 3131

Pune 19th July 2024: To provide relief and protection from the rain, Rotary District 3131 began its free umbrella distribution wherein 2425 free umbrellas are being given to needy roadside vendors and street hawkers. The distribution drive started recently at the hands of Rotary District Governor- Sheetal Shah in the presence of Ajay Wagh, Vijay Kalbhor, Prasad Ganpule, Mansi Shah, Abhay Joshi, and Ragini Shah.

This social initiative is being organized by Rotary District 3131, Rotary’s Playing 11 team, the Economic and Community Development team and the Public Image team. The project is well supported by Rotary Club Bibwewadi, Rotary Club Pune East with a significant financial contribution from Quick Heal.

Globally, Rotary International has been undertaking social activities since 1905. Speaking on the occasion, Sheetal Shah said that the significance of 2425 as the number of umbrellas comes from the rotary year 2024-2025. The Initiative is called ‘Chhatrachhaya’ wherein Street Hawkers and Roadside vendors will be given free Umbrellas to get relief from the rain this monsoon season and to be able to use them in summer as well.

As many as 105 clubs of Rotary District 3131 have participated in this initiative. Such a large participation of Rotary Clubs in a single initiative is a significant event in the history of Rotary. Under this initiative, these umbrellas are being given to the needy vegetable and fruit sellers, street hawkers, and roadside vendors from Pune city and Pune district, Pimpri Chinchwad, Maval, Panvel and parts of Raigad district, Nashik Road, Indapur on Solapur Road and Baramati etc.

The umbrella provided under the 'Chhatrachhaya' initiative is six and a half feet wide and its height can be adjusted by the vendors according to their needs. Moreover, a heavy stand is provided at the bottom to erect this umbrella. It can be used properly at the convenience of the seller.