Centenary of Rotary International
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | February 23, 2005 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 800,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2075 Stamp Number IN 2098 Yvert et Tellier IN 1840 Stanley Gibbons IN 2257 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN006.05 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Globes | Hands | Rotary | Seals(Emblems) |
A Century of Service and Humanitarian Work
Rotary International is one of the world’s pioneering voluntary service organizations dedicated to humanitarian work, ethical leadership, and the promotion of peace and goodwill. Founded on 23 February 1905 by Paul P. Harris in the United States, Rotary has grown into a global movement committed to improving communities and fostering international understanding.
Today, Rotary International has more than 1.2 million members, known as Rotarians, spread across 33,000 clubs in over 165 countries and geographical regions worldwide. Through various community initiatives and international projects, Rotary continues to uphold its guiding principle—“Service Above Self.”
Vision and Mission
Rotary International strives to unite people of different cultures, religions, and political beliefs in the spirit of cooperation and service. Its mission focuses on building goodwill, strengthening communities, and encouraging high ethical standards in all professions.
Rotary’s projects range from local community development to global humanitarian initiatives, helping address pressing issues affecting society.
Humanitarian and Community Projects
Over the decades, Rotary has undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at improving lives and strengthening communities. Some of its major areas of work include:
- Healthcare and rehabilitation programs
- Community development projects
- Rainwater harvesting and environmental conservation
- Education and literacy initiatives
- Support for underprivileged communities
These efforts demonstrate Rotary’s long-standing commitment to social welfare and sustainable development.
The Rotary Foundation
The Rotary Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting Rotary’s humanitarian goals. It is a non-profit organization funded entirely through voluntary contributions from Rotarians and supporters around the world.
The Foundation finances international programs that promote peace, education, health care, and humanitarian assistance, with the broader goal of achieving global understanding and harmony.
Global Fight Against Polio
One of Rotary’s most remarkable contributions has been its leadership in the global campaign to eradicate Polio.
In 1988, Rotary International launched an ambitious global initiative to eliminate polio worldwide. Working in partnership with organizations such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Rotary played a key role in mass immunization campaigns.
Rotary not only contributed more than US $600 million toward the initiative but also mobilized thousands of volunteers across the globe. As a result of these coordinated efforts, the number of polio-endemic countries declined dramatically—from 125 to just a few, protecting millions of children from the disease.
Rotary in India
Rotary began its journey in India in 1919 with the establishment of its first club in Kolkata. Since then, the organization has expanded significantly across the country.
Today, Rotary in India has over 100,000 members in around 2,500 clubs, actively working to support social welfare programs, education, healthcare, and community development. Indian Rotarians have also played a major role in the country’s polio eradication campaigns.
Environmental and Social Initiatives
In 1990, Rotary launched the Preserve Planet Earth Programme, aimed at addressing environmental concerns such as ecological conservation and sustainable resource management.
The organization has also focused on tackling global challenges including:
- Illiteracy
- Drug abuse
- Welfare of senior citizens
- Child development and protection
Through these initiatives, Rotary continues to contribute to building healthier and more sustainable communities.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
In recognition of its outstanding contributions to humanitarian service and global development, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring Rotary International during its centennial year, celebrating a century of dedication to service, peace, and international cooperation.