Lions Clubs of MD 3231 began the new Lionistic year with a strong focus on education, launching projects that provide not only materials but also access—ensuring children can learn with dignity and without barriers.
On July 1, 2025, Lions of District 3231-A3, under District Governor Manoj Babur, inaugurated the Lionistic Year 2025–2026 with the Mega Notebook Distribution Project. In partnership with Millennium Lions Club and 57 other clubs, the district planned the distribution of 60,000 notebooks worth ₹18 lakhs. Half the cost was borne by Rajendra Jhunjhunwala, a member of the Millennium Lions Club, with the balance contributed collectively by the participating clubs.
The project was inaugurated at BMC School, Malad West, where 300 dozen notebooks were handed over to students, coinciding with the Installation Ceremony of the new District Cabinet. Then International First Vice President A.P. Singh commended the initiative and personally distributed notebooks to 15 girl students. Simultaneously, 57 clubs across the district—from Bandra to Dahanu—carried out distributions in their local areas.
By the end of day one, 10,000 children had received six notebooks each. One young girl summed it up simply: “I never thought I would get so many new notebooks at once. Now I can write neatly and won’t have to worry about asking my parents to buy notebooks. I will study harder and make them proud.”
The school arrangements were overseen by Nanu Sodha, while GST Coordinator Tasnim Harianawala ensured the notebooks reached clubs on time.
Just weeks later, on August 24, 2025, District 3231-A1 turned its attention to rural girls’ education, addressing the daily struggle of reaching school. At S.K. Choudhry Memorial School & Jr. College in Medhe Village, of the Palghar district in Maharashtra, 80 bicycles worth ₹3.6 lakh were distributed to girl students who otherwise had to walk 5–6 kms each way before returning to chores at home or work in the fields. The project was conceptualised by District Governor Feroze Kali Katrak PMJF, and supported by 14 clubs including Lions Clubs of Byculla, Sion, Babulanath, Pydhonie, Garden View, East Bombay, Elite, Midtown, Gateway, Udaan, Walkeshwar, South Hill, Dhobi Talao and Dadar Jewels.
Logistics were coordinated with help from PDG Prashant Patil of District 3231-A3 and Vasai Lions Club.
For the girls, the bicycles were more than a mode of transport; they were a step toward attendance, continuity in studies, and hope for a brighter future. The joy was evident in their smiles as they received their new cycles. The project also received coverage in nine local newspapers, extending its reach.
Together, these initiatives show how Lions are strengthening education in both urban and rural contexts – whether by placing notebooks in the hands of students or giving girls the bicycles they need to reach school.