Chartered on April 25, 2023, the Rotary Club of Golaghat Elegance began its mission to serve the community and uphold the Rotary principle of "Service Above Self." With 31 founding members, the club quickly became an active participant in both local and global service initiatives. The club’s establishment was guided by Rtn. Dr. Kushanava Pabi, the District Governor at the time, and Rtn. Jayabrata Banerjee, who served as the formation advisor. The club’s first official event occurred on June 10, 2023, when it installed its first Board of Directors. PDG Chandu Agarwal presented the club’s official charter, and Rtn. Arup Kr. Bora assumed the role of Charter President, with Rtn. Prabin Kr. Bagaria as Charter Secretary. This ceremony launched the club’s first year of impactful community service. One of the club’s first projects, Project Prerona, aimed to support academically talented yet underprivileged students. During the Charter Presentation, eight students from Furkating and Balijan were honored with financial assistance to further their education. In July 2023, the club partnered with the Assam Forest Department for Vana Mahotsava, planting saplings along National Highway 39 to promote environmental awareness. The club’s commitment to education continued with Project Xahayika, which provided Balijan High School with ceiling fans to improve its learning environment. Service Activities and Milestones Throughout the year, the club demonstrated its dedication to community service. On Independence Day 2023, members visited Shanti Aloy Old Age Home, distributing mosquito nets, fruits, and sweets to the elderly. The National Builders Award (NBA) ceremony in September recognized five rural teachers for their outstanding contributions to education. In October 2023, the club organized a Students’ Mental Health Workshop at Government Bezbarua Higher Secondary School, benefiting over 200 students. During Children’s Day in November, the club distributed study materials and treats at Children’s Home in Bokakhat, supporting underprivileged children. Fellowship and Member Engagement Fellowship and camaraderie were key to the club’s success. In December, the members gathered for their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Kakochang, where they participated in team-building activities and visited a local waterfall. The club also participated in the Golaghat Book Fair, further strengthening its ties within the community. In January 2024, members attended the District Conference in Sonapur, and celebrated Republic Day at Shanti Aloy Old Age Home, where they distributed fruits and organised activities for the residents. A significant moment of the month was the celebration of Mrs. Signi Devi Bagaria’s 98th birthday, honouring the mother of Rtn. Prabin Kr. Bagaria for her long life and contributions. Leadership Development and Global Engagement February 2024 saw the induction of three new members: Rtn. Montu Bora, Rtn. Syed Moslehuz Zaman, and Rtn. Ashwini Rajkhowa, bringing fresh energy to the club. Six members attended the Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) in Guwahati to enhance their leadership skills and knowledge of Rotary’s global mission. The club also donated a television set to the female inmates at the District Jail, improving their access to information and entertainment. A Year of Impactful Projects In April 2024, the club launched “Beyond Vision: A Roof of Compassion” on its Charter Day, a project aimed at providing tin roofing sheets to visually impaired individuals in need. This initiative, along with others, reflected the club’s deep commitment to service. Club’s Growth and Contributions Reflecting on the 2023-24 Rotary year, the club successfully completed numerous service projects, raising 3.75 lakhs through generous member contributions. Notably, Rtn. P.K. Bagaria’s financial support was pivotal in many initiatives, including donations to Balijan High School and the District Jail. The club also exceeded its contribution target for the Rotary Foundation (TRF), donating $150, surpassing its annual goal of $100. Second Installation and Continued Service (August 3, 2024) The Rotary Club of Golaghat Elegance held its second installation ceremony on August 3, 2024, with Rtn. Prabin Kr. Bagaria taking over as President and Rtn. Seema Nath as Secretary. Under their leadership, the club has remained steadfast in its commitment to community service. The club also achieved the status of an EREY (Every Rotarian, Every Year) club by donating $10 to the Polio Fund, continuing its support for Rotary’s global health initiatives and efforts to eradicate polio. Looking Ahead As the Rotary Club of Golaghat Elegance completes its successful first year and continues to thrive in its second, it stands as a testament to the power of service and fellowship. With a legacy of impactful contributions to education, mental health, environmental sustainability, and community welfare, the club has established a strong foundation for future initiatives. Driven by a dedicated group of Rotarians eager to make a difference, the club looks forward to many more years of service, fellowship, and growth.