Industries Should Contribute to Social Welfare with a Sense of Responsibility: Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

Pune : Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has urged industries to contribute towards societal development by setting aside a portion of their profits for public welfare under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He commended all industries and stakeholders for their sincere efforts in supporting community development through CSR initiatives.

He was addressing the “Champion of Change – CSR Awards” program organized by the Zilla Parishad in the auditorium of the Divisional Commissioner’s Office. Also present were Acting Divisional Commissioner Kavita Dvivedi, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Zilla Parishad CEO Gajanan Patil, Additional CEO Chandrakant Waghmare, DRDA Project Director Shalini Kadu, and Deputy CEO Shrikant Kharaat.

Congratulating the awardees, Deputy CM Pawar stated that the contributions of various industries to social causes are commendable, and he expressed confidence that such efforts will continue in the future as well.

Marking the significance of the day, he noted that today is the 352nd Coronation Day of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a revered leader whose courage, sacrifice, and valor continue to inspire. Pawar emphasized the importance of preserving communal harmony and mutual respect among all castes and religions. He said the state government strives to progress by following the ideologies of Shivaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Mahatma Phule, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

The program served as a dynamic platform, uniting CSR partners to contribute to Pune district’s development. Through the “Pune Model Primary Health Centre” initiative, quality healthcare will be provided by strengthening rural health infrastructure.

Under the “Pune Model School” initiative, the Zilla Parishad will implement digital schools aimed at holistic student development—providing access to education, facilities, and training. The active involvement of industries has made this vision achievable. This shows the vital role CSR partners can play in achieving the goals of the National Education Policy 2020, Pawar added.

He stated that recognizing and awarding CSR contributors and honoring impactful projects would be truly inspirational. The CSR infrastructure model created by the Pune Zilla Parishad is exemplary and can serve as a benchmark for other districts. Supporting initiatives focused on educational quality and healthcare through CSR will help Pune district continue to lead nationally, he emphasized.

The event began with deliberations on key themes such as comprehensive rural education through CSR, creating future-ready villages, and strengthening rural healthcare systems.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar presented awards to sixteen industries across five categories: education & sports promotion, health & sanitation, environmental conservation, income generation & skill development, and community empowerment.

Zilla Parishad CEO Mr. Patil delivered the welcome address and explained the program’s objectives. The event saw participation from various department officials and industry representatives. Deputy CEO Shrikant Kharaat proposed the vote of thanks.