Pune: The Pune Branch of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) Western India Regional Council (WIRC) has received two prestigious awards for its remarkable performance in 2024. It has been recognized as the Best Branch and the Best Student (Vikasa) Branch at the regional level.
These awards were achieved under the guidance of CA Chandrashekhar Chitale, a member of the ICAI Central Committee, and the leadership of CA Amruta Kulkarni (Chairperson, Pune Branch) and CA Pranav Apte (President, Vikasa).
The awards were presented at a ceremony held in Mumbai, where CA Ankit Rathi, Chairman of WIRC, felicitated the Pune Branch for its contributions. Several key figures attended the event, including WIRC Vice Chairman CA Rahul Parikh, CA Pinky Kedia, CA Gautam Lath, Vikasa Chairman CA Piyush Chandak, and Pune Branch Executive Committee members CA Rajesh Agarwal, CA Pritesh Munot, CA Hrishikesh Badwe, and CA Ajinkya Randive.
Key Initiatives That Led to Success
Speaking about the branch's initiatives, Chairperson CA Amruta Kulkarni highlighted the various programs organized in the Platinum Jubilee Year, emphasizing the focus on sustainability and financial education.
The branch banned plastic usage and promoted eco-friendly practices.
Several workshops, conferences, and panel discussions were held on financial topics.
New courses were introduced on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Forensic Accounting, and GST.
Pune Branch became the only branch in India to celebrate Accounting Standards Day.
This collective success was made possible through the efforts of branch officials, executive committee members, regional committee members, Pune-based CA members, faculty, students, and staff, as well as guidance from senior mentors.
Student-Centric Initiatives
CA Pranav Apte, President of Vikasa, shared insights into the student-focused programs, stating that activities were planned considering future challenges and opportunities for CAs.
Key student initiatives included:
Blood donation camps
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission)
Sports competitions
Industrial visits
Guidance sessions on article training and career development