KOLKATA: Rotary District 3291 ushered in the new Rotary Year 2026–27 with its grand District Changeover Ceremony held at Spring Club, Kolkata, on the evening of July 1. The event marked the formal installation of Rtn. Tapas Bhattacharya as the new District Governor, who assumed charge from the outgoing District Governor Rtn. Dr. Ramendu Homchoudhuri in the presence of more than 500 Rotarians representing Rotary clubs from across West Bengal.
The ceremony was graced by Past Rotary International President K. R. Ravindran of Sri Lanka as the Chief Guest. In his inspiring address, he urged Rotarians to continue transforming lives through meaningful and sustainable service while strengthening Rotary’s values of leadership, integrity and fellowship. The occasion was further enriched by the presence of Past Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta, several Past District Governors, senior Rotary leaders and distinguished guests.
Addressing the gathering after taking office, District Governor Tapas Bhattacharya unveiled his vision and priorities for the year ahead, reaffirming Rotary’s commitment to creating lasting impact across the district. Among the major initiatives announced were the development of the G Plot area in the Sundarbans, distribution of artificial limbs to persons with disabilities, life-saving heart surgeries for children, and expansion of several community development programmes.
The new District Governor also announced that Rotary’s successful campaign against thalassemia, which received major attention during the previous Rotary year, will continue with sustained commitment. He emphasized that Rotary Community Corps (RCCs) will play a pivotal role in taking Rotary’s service initiatives deeper into semi-urban and rural communities, ensuring that the benefits of Rotary projects reach those who need them the most.
During the ceremony, District Governor Tapas Bhattacharya introduced his leadership team for the Rotary Year 2026–27. The occasion also witnessed the release of the first Governor’s Monthly Letter (GML) of the new Rotary year and the official publication of the Rotary District 3291 Directory 2026–27, both serving as important resources for Rotarians across the district.
The programme was seamlessly coordinated by District Learning Facilitator PDG Debasish Mitra, District Executive Secretary Rtn. Raja Guha, District Secretary Events Rtn. Ashif Shah and the team whose meticulous planning and execution ensured the smooth conduct of the prestigious event.
Adding another milestone to the evening, Rotary Club of Calcutta Elite celebrated its Third Installation Ceremony, where Rtn. Archana Bhotika formally assumed office as President for the Rotary Year 2026–27.
Speaking to the media, District Public Image Chair Rtn. Sudipta Kundu announced an exciting inter-district initiative—the “Sampreeti Car Rally”, jointly organised by Rotary District 3291 and Rotary District 3240. Scheduled for 29 August 2026, the rally will commence from Kolkata and culminate at Panthaniwas, Bolpur. The event aims to create greater public awareness about Rotary’s areas of focus and its humanitarian initiatives while promoting friendship and collaboration between the two Rotary districts.
The District Changeover Ceremony received enthusiastic participation from Rotarians and was covered by several leading media organisations, marking a vibrant beginning to another year of Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self.”
