Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Satara Civil Hospital - 2025

– A Lifesaving Contribution by Rotary

Through the initiative of the Rotary Club of Wai and the Rotary Club of Wellbeing International, Rotary International Districts 3132, 1210,1220,1240 and 1080 and with the support of The Rotary Foundation, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Satara District Hospital has been significantly strengthened. 

This project aims to respond urgently to the increasing number of deliveries and the rising complications among newborns in the district, particularly focusing on providing advanced and free medical care to families from low-income groups.

Under this project, supported by a Rotary Global Grant, the NICU has been equipped with advanced medical devices including ventilators, radiant warmers, photo therapy units, monitors, incubators, and infusion pumps. As a result, the department's capacity has significantly increased, and critically ill babies who were previously referred outside the district can now receive treatment locally in Satara.

Project Inauguration

The NICU was inaugurated by Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Parishad Satara, Ms. Yashashree Nagrajan, in the presence of Rotary District Governor Rtn. Sudhir Lature, Past District Governors Rtn. Swati Herkal and Dr. Omprakash Motipawale, along with Civil Surgeon Dr. Yuvraj Karpe. Many Rotarians, health officials, and social workers also attended the event.

In her speech, CEO Ms. Nagrajan said, “Rotary doesn’t just donate equipment – it reaches beneficiaries and creates a meaningful, positive change in their lives. That is its true strength. By establishing this NICU in a government hospital, Rotary Club of Wai has provided a critical lifeline for thousands of newborns. This project is a shining example of service, collaboration, and social responsibility in the healthcare sector.”

International Partner Dr. Ujjvala Chidrawar and PDG Dr. Mukund Chidrawar also shared their thoughts during the event. They emphasized that saving lives is the foremost priority of this project, and many newborns will get a new lease on life through the advanced facilities established.

They also expressed that working repeatedly with the Rotary Club of Wai has been a deeply fulfilling and enriching experience.

DG Rtn. Sudhir Lature stated, “Rotarians can work miracles through The Rotary Foundation. This project is a milestone in delivering on Rotary’s focus area of Maternal and Child Health.”

Dr. Yuvraj Karpe, Civil Surgeon, added, “This is a priceless contribution by Rotary toward saving newborn lives. We will ensure these facilities are used to benefit those most in need.”

Project Chair PDG Rtn. Swati Herkal explained the background, necessity, and Rotary’s role in the project: “This is not just a medical facility – it is a lifesaving opportunity for newborns. As Rotarians, we feel immense satisfaction and pride in making this possible.”

Thanks to the persistent follow-up by Civil Surgeon Dr. Karpe and the cooperation of the hospital staff, the project was completed on time. Special contributions were made by Rtn. Pramod Shinde, Dr. Manohar Datar, Rtn. Madan Pore, and Dr. Jitendra Pathak.

Rtn. Kunal Shah, President of Rotary Club of Wai, welcomed all guests, and Secretary Rtn. Anupam Gandhi proposed the vote of thanks.

New 14 Unit NeoNatal ICU 

A Heart-Touching Moment – The True Spirit of Selfless Service

Just two days before the formal inauguration of the project, a critically ill newborn was admitted to the NICU.

A request came from pediatrician Dr. Zhende:

“Can we use the new equipment?”

The Rotary Club of Wai responded without a moment's delay:

“Yes! If it can save the child, use it immediately!”

And what happened next was etched in everyone’s hearts forever…

The next day, when members of Rotary Club of Wai visited the hospital,

All 10 warmers were in use, saving the lives of newborns.

Tears welled up in everyone’s eyes —

Tears of fulfillment, service, and the true experience of Rotary.

This is what genuine selfless service looks like.