Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Flags Off Stage 3 of Bajaj Pune Grand Tour in Saswad

Pune, Jan 2026 : Amid resounding chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” “Jai Bhavani Jai Shivaji,” and “Ganpati Bappa Morya,” the third stage of the international cycling competition ‘Bajaj Pune Grand Tour’ was ceremonially flagged off at the Saswad Municipal Council premises. The vibrant atmosphere was further enriched by schoolchildren presenting a Shivrajyabhishek tableau in traditional-era attire and the enthusiastic participation of local residents. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar inaugurated the stage by waving the flag and personally interacted with the cyclists, wishing them success for the journey ahead.

The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar, MLA Vijay Shivtare, former MLA Sanjay Jagtap, Municipal Council President Anandi Jagtap, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Maharashtra Olympic Association Secretary Sanjay Shete, among other dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said that Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the entire Pune district have always given priority to sports. He noted that athletes draw motivation and joy from the enthusiastic support of citizens. He praised the excellent planning of the event and the high-quality race routes, adding that cyclists had expressed how the encouragement from spectators standing along both sides of the roads gave them extra energy. He also acknowledged the cooperation extended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in organising the event.

Pawar appreciated the collective efforts of the central and state governments, the Pune district administration, and the active participation of reputed organisations such as Bajaj and Serum Institute, along with various sports bodies. He also congratulated the residents of Saswad for their overwhelming response and support.

The third stage of the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour covered a total distance of 137.7 kilometres, starting from Saswad and passing through Supe, Panwadi Ghat, Kaldari (Bori Phata), Mandhar, Mahur, Parinche, Harni, Walhe, Pisurti, Neera, Brahmandhara, Murti, Morgaon, Tardoli, Jalgav K.P., Karhavagan, Khandobanagar, Pimplai, Limtek, Kanheri, Rui Road Saval, and Vanjarwadi, before concluding at Vidya Pratishthan Arts, Science and Commerce College in Baramati.

Along the entire route, villagers lined the roads applauding, whistling, raising slogans, and playing traditional instruments to cheer the cyclists. Roads were decorated, cut-outs of the Pune Grand Tour were installed at major junctions, and a festive atmosphere prevailed throughout the stretch.

The event mascot emerged as a major attraction for children and elders alike. With disciplined organisation and strong police security, the third stage of the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour concluded successfully.