Pune: The 'Global Entrepreneurs Conclave 2025' was inaugurated virtually by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination between government bodies, educational institutions, and entrepreneurs to bolster industries, businesses, and employment opportunities. The event, jointly organized by PCET, PCU, Garje Marathi Global, and MEDC, aimed to inspire and support Marathi entrepreneurship globally.
Focus on Collaboration and Innovation
The conclave provided a platform to bring together stakeholders from various sectors, including entrepreneurs, academicians, and policymakers. Over 1,200 participants attended, including more than 100 NRI Marathi entrepreneurs, researchers, scientists, and 120 startup founders.
Uday Samant, Maharashtra’s Minister of Industries, announced the creation of a dedicated department in the Ministry of Industry to support Marathi entrepreneurs worldwide. He also highlighted the introduction of Marathi-language engineering courses at Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering in Akurdi, which is expected to promote technical education in the regional language.
Recognition of Excellence
During the event, lifetime achievement awards were conferred on Ramdas Kakde, Dr. P.D. Patil, and Suresh Puranik. Special awards were given to Ashish Achalaker, Amit Garg, Dr. S.V. Anchan, Ramesh Raskar, and Mahesh Bhagwat for their contributions to business and innovation.
Key Participants and Discussions
Prominent attendees included Harshvardhan Patil, former minister and chancellor of PCU; Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, president of the National Innovation Foundation-India; Sandeep Waslekar, author and president of Strategic Foresight Group; and academics from prestigious institutions like Harvard University, Bronx Community College, and Rutgers University. Discussions revolved around fostering innovation, creating industry-academia linkages, and supporting startups.
A Platform for Future Growth
PCU Chancellor Harshvardhan Patil remarked that the initiative aims to reduce the gap between academic institutions and industries. He expressed optimism that the conclave would lead to actionable strategies for enhancing entrepreneurship.
The event was organized under the leadership of PCET President Dnyaneshwar Landge, Vice-Chairperson Padma Bhosale, Secretary Vitthal Kalbhor, and other notable trustees and entrepreneurs.