Who We Are

Plant with Purpose:

Every sapling contributes ecological, economic, and social value — restoring soil health, reviving biodiversity, and supporting rural livelihoods.

Partner with People:

Projects are co-created with Rotary and Rotaract clubs, local trusts, schools, temples, and self-help groups, ensuring that communities become long-term stewards of the environment.

Protect for Posterity:

Continuous care, monitoring, and transparent reporting guarantee sustainable impact — ensuring that today's plantations become tomorrow's forests.

Rtn. Flt. Lt. K. P. Nagesh

Rotary International Director (2025–27), Founder Trustee REF and Advisor

Flt. Lt. K. P. Nagesh brings strategic leadership, governance, and a National vision for integrating Rotary's Environmental initiatives into public-private partnerships and policy frameworks. He is a visionary leader whose journey from the Indian Air Force to entrepreneurship and community service embodies Rotary's ideal of "Service Above Self." A decorated officer and President of India Gold Medal awardee, he has led transformative initiatives in Rotary as District Governor and Foundation Advisor, driving record growth in membership, youth engagement, and sustainability. Through the Rotary Environment Foundation (REF), he champions Rotary's Protecting the Environment area of focus—integrating ecological restoration with livelihood creation, education, and community empowerment across India.

Rtn. Ravishankar Dakoju

District Governor 2026-27, R I District 319 & Founder Trustee, REF

He is a visionary philanthropist and entrepreneur whose generosity and purpose have inspired a movement for sustainable change. In 2018, he pledged an unprecedented ₹100 crore to The Rotary Foundation, making one of the largest individual contributions in Rotary's history. His leadership embodies compassion in action — transforming barren lands into green sanctuaries through landmark initiatives like Rotary Koti Nati and Challakere Afforestation. Guided by his belief that "planting trees is our way of thanking Mother Earth," he continues to drive a legacy of service that restores both nature and hope.

Rtn. Suresh Hari

Past District Governor, Rotary International District 3190 & Trustee, REF

Suresh is recognised for his vigorous advocacy of The Rotary Foundation and community projects. A stalwart of Rotary and an advocate for sustainable urban transformation, PDG Rtn. Suresh Hari's leadership is marked by strategic clarity, institution-building, and a deep commitment to service. With decades of contribution to Rotary's growth and governance, he has been a driving force in community development, infrastructure planning, and environment-focused initiatives. His mentorship and policy insight strengthen Rotary Environment Foundation's mission to align environmental stewardship with innovation, technology, and civic participation. A Rotarian par excellence, he continues to guide the next generation of leaders in building a greener, more responsible future.

Rtn. Thirumurugan

Chairman & Trustee, REF

A dedicated Rotarian and social innovator, Rtn. Thirumurugan bridges grassroots action with strategic partnerships to scale environmental and educational initiatives. As Past President of Rotary Club of Bangalore Briges and a committed REF Trustee, he has played a pivotal role in mobilising communities for afforestation, clean water access, and renewable energy adoption. His approach — grounded in collaboration and community ownership — exemplifies Rotary's spirit of service through impact. Passionate about youth engagement and sustainability, he continues to strengthen REF's partnerships and on-ground implementation, ensuring that every initiative plants the seeds of lasting change.

Rtn. Elizabeth Cherian

Trustee and Immediate Past Chair

Rtn. Elizabeth Cherian serves as District Governor for Rotary International District 3192. A distinguished educator, researcher, and poet, she has held leadership roles in numerous national and international health‐promotion and social‐service organisations, including as President of the Alliance for Health Promotion (Geneva) and member of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board. A passionate community builder and transformative leader, Rtn. Elizabeth Cherian brings empathy, excellence, and empowerment to every initiative she leads. With decades of service across multiple Rotary avenues, she has been instrumental in advancing literacy, women's leadership, and sustainable development programs. Her vision blends compassion with innovation — nurturing partnerships that create equitable opportunities and drive measurable impact across urban and rural communities. As District Governor, she continues to inspire Rotarians to lead with purpose and serve with heart, championing Rotary's core values through inclusive, people-centered action.

Rtn. Neil Michael Joseph

Trustee & Secretary

Neil is a dynamic social entrepreneur and founder of Happiness in Transit, dedicated to creating joyful, sustainable communities. At REF, he leads project strategy, implementation, and partnerships with schools and institutions, driving youth participation in environmental action. From the Kolar Gold Fields Reclamation to the Ryan International–Rotary Environmental Education Alliance, his work bridges innovation, logistics, and learning — transforming awareness into action and students into changemakers.

Rtn. Vijay Tadimalla

Trustee & Treasurer, Finance & Governance Lead

Vijay brings financial stewardship and strategic governance to every Project he has taken up. A seasoned Chartered Accountant and respected Senior Rotarian in R I District 3191, he ensures transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline across all projects. With his extensive experience in managing large-scale Rotary initiatives, he anchors REF's mission with integrity and precision — ensuring that every contribution translates into measurable, lasting impact for people and the planet.