Gave $176 million for polio eradication.
By American Bazaar Staff
WASHINGTON, DC: When it comes to philanthropy, there is no beating the United States. Charity is a way of life for most Americans, and it’s not just limited to domestic causes, but generosity of good Samaritans extends around the globe. So what about India?
It may come as a pleasant surprise to many, but by all indications the spirit of generosity is now extending to Indians too, who rank number three, after US and Japan, when it comes to giving funds to Rotary at the international level, reports The Indian Express.
Ron Burton, incoming president of the Rotary International, who was in Chandigarh today complimented the Rotarians of India for their hard work in bringing the country off the list of polio-endemic countries and the help Indian doctors are providing in combating it in countries like Nigeria, writes the paper.
“In India, Rotary has spent $176 million in these efforts and will continue to fund more for other initiatives,” he said. “Things are changing at a great speed and I am happy to see the work done by the Rotarians of India at the international level. India is a very great country when it comes to giving and serving the humanity,” said Burton.
When asked about the initiatives the Rotary Foundation will take to promote the safety of women, Burton said “Rotary International works for the upliftment of all irrespective of the color, gender, sex, and believes in the dignity of all human beings.”
He added, “At present only 18% of Rotary members all over the world are women, which is a sad statistic. I would like if the number of women Rotarians increase to 50%, and initiatives will be taken to improve the women’s participation. At the same time, I am happy to announce that for the first time, Rotary International will have a woman vice-president.”