PUNE: Deogaonkar Foundation’s Nisarga Chhaya project, a resort for senior citizens under the aegis of Hon Chandrakant Dada Patil, is organising a Senior Citizens’ Mega Meet on Tuesday, June 3, at Pandit Farms on DP Road. The expo will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and entry will be free for all, informed Amruta Deogaonkar, Director of the Nisarga Chhaya project.

This senior citizens’ meet is conceptualized by Amruta and Mandar Deogaonkar and supported by Navachaitanya Laughter Club. Explaining more about the meet, Amruta Deogaonkar said, “We are organizing this mega meet for senior citizens on the occasion of the 10,000th booking of Nisarga Chhaya project and the birthday of the State’s Higher and Technical Education Minister, MLA Chandrakant Patil. The one-day meet will feature a display of useful products and essential services for senior citizens, laughter yoga, and a musical performance by singers Rushikesh Ranade, Jitendra Abhyankar, and Swapnaja Lele.”

The exhibition will include stalls providing information on healthcare services, investment plans for senior citizens, essential food products, and tours for senior citizens. The program will begin with a laughter yoga session at 8:45 am, followed by the exhibition from 9 am to 5 pm, with various activities and musical performances for senior citizens. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Higher and Technical Education Minister MLA Chandrakant Patil will grace the event. The launch of Nisarga Chhaya’s monthly magazine and video will also take place during the event.

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On the occasion of International Day of Forests, Jungle Belles in association with Canon India organized a special talk, where renowned wildlife photographer Vinod Bartakke, shared his experience on the Snow Leopard Expedition to Spiti. The program took place at the Training Center Hall, Seva Bhavan, Erandwane, Pune on Friday, March 21st. Through his presentation, he shared images of some of the rarest birds and mammals found exclusively in Spiti. He also showcased a film capturing these mammals in their natural habitat—hunting, playing, and moving in groups. The footage revealed their awareness of the foreign device filming them, adding a fascinating perspective to their intelligence. He concluded with stunning images that highlighted Spiti’s beauty, emphasizing that no matter the challenges of traveling there, the experience is truly worth it. Special gear, including trousers and snowshoes capable of withstanding -20°C temperatures, is essential for the harsh terrain, he mentioned further.

He educated the audience that from December to March, the snow leopard season attracts wildlife enthusiasts, with the best chances of sightings between February 15th and March 15th. During this period, leopards descend while following their prey, increasing visibility. The presence of snow Leopard is benefitting the local economy. Guide trackers and porters play a significant role in supporting eco-tourism as their contribution helps reduce human-wildlife conflict.

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In celebration of the birthday of the founder, Late Sajid Dhanani Sir, Sayaji Pune undertook a significant corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity, embodying the spirit of giving and community support. The day commenced with a small but heartfelt celebration among the hotel team, honoring the legacy of Mr. Dhanani.

Following the in-house celebrations, the team from Sayaji Pune set out to the Pimpri Chinchwad area, where they distributed food, clothes, and umbrellas to the homeless. This initiative aimed to provide immediate relief and support to those in need, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to making a positive impact in the community.

Ajay, Cluster General Manager of Sayaji Hotels, shared his thoughts on the occasion: “At Sayaji Pune, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. Celebrating the birthday of our founder, Late Sajid Dhanani Sir, in this manner is a tribute to his vision and values. Our team is dedicated to not just providing unparalleled hospitality to our guests but also extending our support to the less fortunate in our community. This CSR activity is a step towards making a meaningful difference, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute.“

Sayaji Pune continues to uphold its reputation for excellence, both in hospitality and community engagement, setting a benchmark for 5-star hotels in Pune. Through such initiatives, the hotel aims to inspire others to join in the mission of creating a better and more compassionate society.

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Dr Medha Kulkarni, a newly elected Rajya Sabha Member from Pune, paid a visit to the Shivsrushti project being developed in Narhe-Ambegaon on the occasion of Shiv Jayanti today. Shivsrushti is a mega historical theme park based on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, conceptualized by Late Padma Vibhushan Shivshahir Babasaheb Purandare and developed by the Maharaja Shivchhatrapati Pratishthan.

Dr Medha Kulkarni bowed down to the idol of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on her visit to Shivsrushti. Dignitaries like Adv S K Jain; President of Shikshan Prasarak Mandali, Baba Rawat; President of Deccan Education Society, Vineet Kuber and Sunil Mutalik; Trustees of Maharaja Shivchhatrapati Pratishthan, and others were also present on the occasion.

While speaking on the occasion, Dr Medha Kulkarni said, “I am committed to providing all the necessary support for the completion of the Shivsrushti project at the earliest. Along with this, I will also try my best to eliminate the obstacles faced by the educational institutions in Pune.”

Vineet Kuber welcomed the Chief Guests on the occasion.

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Vice Admiral Kochhar was recently speaking during the second workshop of the four-workshop series titled ‘Institutionalized Skilling Ecosystems for Advanced Realization of Sagar Vision’ to drive the Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) framework, organized by Pune based Maritime Research Centre (MRC) along with Indo-Swiss Centre for Excellence (ISCE) at the College of Engineering, Pune. He spoke on the topic ‘Maritime Governance and Matters Maritime’

Lt Gen (Retd) D B Shekatkar, POSHS Metal Industries Chairman Vikram Puri, MRC Founder-Director Commander (Retd) Arnab Das, and MRC Advisor Praful Talera were present on the occasion.

He also remarked that of late the Arabian Sea has become a hotbed of narcotics.

“A new security challenge which has recently emerged; especially in our context on the western sea-board is narco-terrorism. Of late, the Arabian Sea has become a hotbed of narcotics. All the supply lines are emerging right from our neighborhood and the narcotics are being landed across multiple nation-states within the Indian Ocean region. And the funds which are generated are being used to fund terrorism,” Vice Admiral Kochhar stated.

The senior Naval official also termed underwater domain awareness as a key challenge and outlined the areas which required maritime governance and responsible resource management.

“Therefore, effectively harnessing the blue economy, sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improving livelihoods and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem by preventing overfishing, protecting marine biodiversity and reducing pollution in the ocean also requires maritime governance and responsible resource management,” the senior official stated.

Lt Gen (Retd) D B Shekatkar, who headed a committee of experts constituted by the Ministry of Defence, made opening remarks and stressed the importance of maritime security. The former Army officer also said India should take efforts to preserve its resources in the Exclusive Economic Zone.

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Parivartan Shetkari Gat (Group) from village Vathoda, Taluka Varod from Amravati district bagged the first prize of Rs. 25 lakhs. The second prize was grabbed by village Golegaon, taluka Khultabad from Aurangabad; they received prize money of Rs. 15 Lakhs. The third prize was jointly bagged by Jai Yogesshwar Shetkari Gat (Group) village Danger Budruk from Amalner taluka, District Jalgaon, and by Unnati Shetkari Gat (Group) from village Nandapur, Taluka Kalamnuri from Hingoli district. Both districts received a prize of Rs. 5 lahks. Forty-two taluka-level winners won Rs. 1 lakh each. The prizes were given to groups who did excellent work in implementing best agricultural practices, practicing residue-free farming, lowering the cost of cultivation, and improving productivity.

The prizes were given to groups who did excellent work in implementing best agricultural practices, practicing residue-free farming, lowering the cost of cultivation, and improving productivity.

The Chief Guest for this event was the Honorable Deputy CM of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis. On the occasion, he said, “It is a commendable work done by Paani Foundation ably led by Shri. Amir Khan. I am really overwhelmed by the unity displayed by the farmers and dedication by the community towards the cause. I would appeal Paani Foundation to further scale up the participation of farmers as it would lead to a holistic development of the farming community. He congratulated the entire participating farmer and emphasised on how collectivisation in farming is the key to tackling inflation, climate change, and market uncertainties. He also urged the collectives to look beyond subsidies, and focus on creating self-sustaining and profitable farmer producer companies.”

On the occasion, Amir Khan, Founder of, the Paani Foundation said, “I thank Shri. Fadnavis for his words of encouragement and would ensure that we try our level best to best to go the extra mile. Also to all the participants, I salute them for their passion and commitment towards the competition.”

Many luminaries from diverse fields also joined the ceremony like Padma Shri Popatrao Pawar, Shri. Shantilal Muttha of Bhartiya, Jain Sangathana, Shri Eknath Dawale – Agriculture Secretary, Shri. Ashutosh Gowariker, Film Director and Actor, Shri Atul Kulkarni, Actor, Shri Sunil Chavan – Agricultural Commissioner, Shri Vikas Shinde of Sahyadri Farms, Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities: Dr. Prashant Patil of MPKV, Rahuri & – Dr. Sharad Gadakh of PDKV, Akola

The highlight of the event was a “Powada” (folk song and dance), performed by Shahir Avdhoot Gandhi, and accompanied by noted dancer Ms. Phulawa Khamkar and her troupe, to honor the work done by the farmers. Written by Vaibhav Hiwase with Suresh Bhatia as Director of the show, the song was specially composed for this event by musician duo Rahul Khade and Tejas Kale, of the group Sameehan. The 35-minute Powada performance received thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the audience.

Mr. Vilas Shinde, the Chairman of Sahyadri Farms, shared his thoughts on the importance of farmer-producer companies. In a conversation with Mr. Khan, Padma Shri Popatrao Pawar spoke about the importance of farmers’ unity.

The anchors of this function were noted actor, Ms. Spruha Joshi, as well as writer Neeraj Narkar. Paani Foundation’s CEO, Mr. Satyajit Bhatkal, and Pramukh Margdarshak, Dr. Avinash Pol, welcomed all the guests and introduced the Farmer Cup.

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Sadananda Shetty, President welcomed the Chief Guest Padmabhushan Dr K.H. Sancheti, Padmabhushan Dr Vijay Bhatkar, M. P. Mansinghka, Guest of Honour Dayal N. Harjani, Radhelal Gupta, Vithal Maniar and Sarita Mansinghka. He briefed the vision and mission of Punyadham.

The day started with the inaugural ceremony of the newly built Gaushala by Dr. Vijay Bhatkar and M.P Mansinghka. This was followed by the felicitation of M.P. Mansinghka.

As a token of appreciation – he has presented with a cheque of Rs.1 lakh, a shawl, coconut, bouquet, a citation, and a majestic trophy. The citation was beautifully read by Ms. Rupa Shetty. In his acceptance speech, Mansinghkaji thanked Punyadham for all the honor showered on him. He said that there is still so much that needs to be done for the deserving. “All should come together to make our society more beautiful”, he expressed.

Dr. K. N. Sancheti then related his own life story and complimented Punyadham for keeping the concept alive of “Service to mankind” & “Giving with Dignity”. Shri Dayal Harjani wrote a beautiful poem that was dedicated to Maa Krishna.

Maa Krishna graciously shared how Punyadham came into being and the whole idea behind its creation. She very eloquently sighted examples and spoke in parables to make the audience understand her message of humanity that work should not be a duty or compulsion but should bring joy and fulfillment.

The whole program was meticulously organized by Ramesh Grover. The momentous day came to a befitting end after delicious delectable prasadam was enjoyed by one & all.

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BENGALURU: The state of Andhra Pradesh showcased its rich natural resources, large investments in infrastructure, land bank, and intensive reforms in rules and regulations at successful investors meeting held today in Bengaluru. These efforts, taken together, position Andhra Pradesh as the state where abundance meets prosperity. The event is one of many such meets being organized in the run-up to the Global Investors Summit on March 3rd-4th 2023 in Visakhapatnam.

Speaking on the occasion Shri Gudivada Amarnath, Honorable Minister for Industries, Infrastructure, Investment & Commerce, IT, Handlooms & Textiles highlighted the state’s export potential. The honorable minister said, “According to LEADS Report 2022, the state’s exports increased by 15.31% from the previous year in 2021–2022, classifying it as “Achievers” in the Coastal States. With the completion of new ports and also further development of infrastructure for the last-mile connectivity, the state’s share in exports can reach up to 10% of India’s total exports.”

Addressing the investors Shri. Buggana Rajendranath Honorable Minister for Finance, Planning, Commercial Taxes, Skill Development, Training & Legislative Affairs assured the investors of the fast-paced implementation of projects in the state. “We strongly believe reducing the time to start a business will have a significant impact on the manufacturer’s profitability. The state is building numerous plug-and-play facilities which will have ready-built factory sheds with quality power and water supply and help speed up setting up of manufacturing units,”.

Shri. Amarnath also added that in the last 3.5 years, the state has approved investments to the tune of Rs.1.9 lakh Crore. “That would go on to create employment for around 90,000 people in the state in the future,” he said.

Key functionaries from various departments, ministries, and state government institutions had an open interaction with the investing community in Bengaluru today. Promising to handhold potential investors and facilitate the fastest turnaround time the presentations showcased the present and upcoming infrastructure and the conducive policy environment of the state.

Manufacturing, food processing, ports, IT and Electronics, handlooms, and textiles sectors attracted significant interest at the event. Andhra Pradesh is India’s gateway to the southeast with its 974 km long coastline, the second longest in the country, 6 existing ports, and 4 upcoming ports. However, it has also emerged as the fastest-growing state in India, as per the number released so far, with double-digit growth of 11.43% in 2021-22. The state has embarked on a rapid growth path under the able leadership of Sri Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Honourable Chief Minister. Thanks to the governance reforms and formulation of investor-friendly policies by the government, the state has emerged on top in terms of ease of doing business (EoD) for three consecutive years.

Consistent improvement in the governance framework to create hassle-free investing is augmented by hard infrastructure as three of the country’s eleven industrial corridors are being built in Andhra Pradesh alone. The improvements have been duly recognized and the state has received various awards over the last year alone. To name a few the LEADS award for logistics 2022, the Inertia Award for Energy 2022, the ET award for port-led, and the infrastructure project 2022.

The event was also graced by the key functionaries of state government including Dr. Srijana Gummalla, IAS, Director of Industries, Commerce & Export Promotion Vice Chairperson & Managing Director AP Industrial Infrastructure Corporation CEO, AP Economic Development Board, Sri. L Sridhar Reddy, CEO, AP Food Processing Society; Sri. Ravindranath Reddy, Deputy CEO, AP Maritime Board; Smt. K. Sunitha, IAS, Principal Secretary, Handlooms & Textiles Government of Andhra Pradesh.

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Puranik was speaking at the concluding session of Seva Tarang, a two-day Maharashtra-level conference of voluntary organizations, organized by Sevavardhini, at the Mahatma Phule Sanskrutik Bhawan in Wanowrie. Kishor Desai, Sevavardhini Executive President, and Somdutt Patwardhan, Sevavardhini secretary were also present for the concluding session. The conference was supported by Persistent Foundation, Praj Foundation, and Mukul Madhav Foundation.

“We all are aware of the four pillars of democracy – Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, and Media. Voluntary Organisations are the fifth pillar and their role is important to safeguard it. Voluntary Organisations have a crucial role to play in democracy,” Puranik said.

Puranik also said that the work done by Voluntary Organisations helps in changing society at large.

“Networking of voluntary organizations is crucial and Voluntary Organisations will need value-based skillful volunteers and they will have to work in tandem to make a positive change,” he added.

Puranik further said that the two-day conference has helped Sevavardhini formulate a road map for the work to be done in the next 25 years.

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Higher Education Minister Chandrakant Patil visited the two-day Maharashtra-level conference of voluntary organizations. He also visited the exhibition of products made by these voluntary organizations.

Patil said earlier the work which was done by Rishi Munis is now being done by Voluntary Organisations. “Voluntary Organisations along with social responsibility have to present their work properly and for that training is essential,” Patil said.

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“Every village must have a seed bank of indigenous seeds, that is my ultimate dream. People must consume chemical-free food. I urge the farmers not to use hybrid seeds and focus on indigenous seeds,” said Rahibai, who is a resident of Kombhalne village in Ahmednagar’s Akola tehsil.

Affectionately called the Seed Mother, Rahibai and another Padma Shri awardee Girish Prabhune, known for his work with the “Pardhi” tribes, were interviewed by Vinita Telang, during the first day of the two-day Maharashtra-level conference of voluntary organizations, organized by Sevavardhini at the Mahatma Phule Sanskrutik Bhawan in Wanowarie.

The conference is organized with the support of Praj Foundation, Persistent Foundation, and Mukul Madhav Foundation, and among others former RSS General Secretary Bhaiyyaji Joshi, Sevavardhini executive president Kishor Desai, conference convenor Sudhir Mehta, Sevavardhini secretary Somdutt Patwardhan, joint secretary Manik Damle and office bearers Jayraj Phansalkar, Padma Kuber were present on the occasion.

Rahibai recalled that it was the illness of her grandson, which prompted her to use indigenous seeds and create a seed bank and her work later spread to many villages.

Similarly, Prabhune recalled several anecdotes on how his work started in the Dharashiv district of Maharashtra.

“I started studying about the nomadic ‘Pardhi’ tribe. My journey for their work started after seeing the police atrocities on the tribe. We understood the problems of the children, whose parents were imprisoned and then started working on them. We started with two individuals, who came on board as volunteers,” said Prabhune, who runs two projects “Yamgarvadi” in Tuljapur and “Punaruttan Samarasta Gurukulam” at Pimpri-Chinchwad.

Prabhune also narrated the work done by him across sectors.

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