Mumbai, Feb 12 : The Rotary Club of Bombay (RCB), in partnership with the Chirag Rural Development Foundation, will celebrate the completion of its 40th Integrated Village Development Project on February 13, 2025. This transformative initiative, implemented in Chandragav village, Palghar District, focuses on enhancing living standards through sustainable solar energy solutions and essential infrastructure upgrades.
RCB President Satyan Israni emphasized the project’s significant impact, stating, “This initiative will provide continuous lighting to 723 villagers through individual solar lamps. Additionally, solar lift irrigation systems will ensure year-round water access for 15 farming families, enabling the cultivation of over 15 acres of land. Households will receive a daily supply of 2,500 liters of safe drinking water through individual filters. Furthermore, 23 solar streetlights have been installed to enhance safety, minimizing risks from snake and scorpion bites.”
The project also prioritizes education and child welfare. With the installation of smart TVs and reliable solar power, 40 primary school students, including 22 girls, will benefit from an enhanced learning environment. Additionally, 52 Anganwadi children, including 28 girls, will experience continuous, solar-powered educational support, fostering consistent foundational learning.
The initiative has been funded by Indian Oxides and Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. and the Narayan family, in memory of Seetha Narayan. Following this achievement, another Integrated Village Development Project will be launched on February 16, 2025, in Bhoyepada, Wanipada, and Gavthan villages, with support from Sumitomo Chemical India Ltd.
Pratibha Pai, Founder of Chirag Rural Development Foundation, highlighted the broader impact, stating, “This collaboration with Rotary Club of Bombay has now reached 40 villages, positively impacting 13,088 lives. Our initiatives have solarized 35 educational facilities, ensured continuous irrigation for 360 acres of land, installed 140 solar streetlights, and provided 50,000 liters of safe drinking water, all powered by 229KW of clean solar energy.”
In addition to infrastructure development, the project includes training programs for farmers on advanced agricultural practices. Some farmers have also received seeds and fruit-bearing saplings to enhance their livelihoods.
