Pune, August 1, 2025

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Friday reaffirmed that the Maharashtra state government stands firmly with the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and its workers. He emphasized that resolving the fundamental issues of MSRTC and its employees is a priority for the government.

He was speaking at a workers’ conference and felicitation ceremony honoring Hanumant Tate, General Secretary of the Maharashtra ST Workers' Union, on the occasion of his Amrit Mahotsav (75th birthday) held at the Vitthal Tupe Natyagruha in Hadapsar, Pune.

The event was attended by Industry Minister Uday Samant, Maharashtra State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar, MLA Chetan Tupe, senior labor leader Baba Adhav, former MLA Ravindra Dhangekar, and others.

Support During COVID and Future Development

Pawar recalled the state government’s proactive role during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in ensuring salaries for ST workers. “The government will continue to support ST employees and their families during times of crisis,” he said.

He praised MSRTC's commitment since its inception in 1948 to its mission of “Gaav Te Thev ST” (an ST bus for every village), offering affordable travel services to the common man. “While serving the public, the ST system must be people-centric. Workers must also take initiative to improve services,” he added.

New PPP Model for Bus Stations

Addressing infrastructure development, Pawar spoke about plans to extend the PPP model lease period for bus stations. Currently set at 30 years (30+30+30), the new plan would increase it to 98 years (49+49) to attract private developers, as short lease terms have failed to garner interest. “This will help improve public amenities at key urban bus stations,” he said.

Push for Electric Buses

Highlighting the need for cost-effective and sustainable transport, Pawar reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting electric buses (EVs) to cut fuel costs. “The central government is offering substantial subsidies, and the state is also pushing for wider EV adoption,” he said.

Tribute to Union Leader Hanumant Tate

Pawar praised Hanumant Tate’s journey from a humble clerk in the MSRTC to a prominent labor leader. “He started from a simple background in Indapur and rose to become General Secretary through sheer dedication,” said Pawar, lauding Tate’s continuous efforts for workers’ rights. Tate has also served twice as a workers’ representative on the MSRTC board.

Industry Minister Uday Samant’s Address

Industry Minister Uday Samant highlighted that Maharashtra offers the highest salaries to ST employees in India. “Five years ago, based on workers’ demands, the government increased wages by ₹6,500,” he noted. Samant added that MIDC has allocated ₹600 crore for upgrading MSRTC bus stands, which will be developed into modern bus portsacross all district headquarters. “Workers must be proactive to ensure better facilities at stations,” he said.

Event Highlights

At the end of the event, Hanumant Tate and his wife were felicitated by the Deputy CM and Industry Minister. In his acceptance speech, Tate thanked all colleagues and reiterated his commitment to ST workers’ welfare. Veteran labor leader Baba Adhav also shared his thoughts, and Union President Sandeep Shinde gave the opening address.

The event saw participation from senior union leaders, MSRTC staff, and local citizens.

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Pune, July 29: The international-level cycling competition, ‘Pune Grand Challenge Tour–2026’, is set to be held in Pune district in January 2026. Describing it as a matter of pride for Pune, Maharashtra, and the nation, District Collector Jitendra Dudi stated that this event presents a valuable opportunity to showcase the tourism and infrastructure capabilities of the region on a global platform. He emphasized that all concerned departments must work in coordination to ensure the success of the event.

He was speaking at a review meeting held at the District Collector’s Office as part of the preparatory efforts for the event. Present at the meeting were Deputy Conservator of Forests (Pune) Mahadev Mohite, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Junnar) Prashant Khade, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Pune) Rajalakshmi Sivanakar, DCP Vivek Patil (Pimpri Chinchwad), District Planning Officer Kiran Indalkar, Assistant Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Jayashree Pawar, Assistant Director of the Archaeology Department Dr. Vilas Wahane, and Executive Engineer from the Public Works Department Milind Barbhe, among others.

The event is being organized by the Pune District Administration in collaboration with the Union Cyclist Internationale (UCI), Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC), and the Cycling Association of Maharashtra (CAM). It aims to promote the Sahyadri hill ranges, natural beauty, and tourism hotspots of Maharashtra.

The competition will be held in four stages, covering areas such as Pune city, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Purandar, Baramati, Maval, Mulshi, Bhor, and Velhe. Relevant departments have been instructed to upgrade roads, healthcare, police, and sports infrastructure to meet international standards on these routes. Proposals are to be submitted for required work, and necessary funding will be provided through the District Planning Committee.

The event will host international cyclists, making it imperative to ensure their safety, health, and hospitality. The police departments have been directed to install barricades, signage, and provide modern vehicles equipped with essential services. The traffic wings of both police commissionerates and the rural police office will play a crucial role.

The Public Works Department has been asked to improve road surfaces, install safety railings and barriers, and ensure bridges along the route are up to standard.

A tertiary care hospital must be available within 25 km of the race route. Suitable private hospitals with advanced facilities will be identified, and Primary Health Centres and Sub-District Hospitals will be upgraded accordingly. Mobile medical units with full facilities will be deployed along the route, supported by radio-controlled systems, advanced ambulances, and motorbike ambulances.

The event will receive extensive media coverage, including live broadcasting, for which coordinated planning is required.

The Food and Drug Administration has been directed to ensure strict food safety protocols. The event will also provide a boost to Pune’s hospitality sector. The Tourism Department has been instructed to plan displays of local and Maharashtrian culture, heritage, and cuisine at various race points along the route.

Officials from Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, National Highways Authority of India, Public Works Department, Pune Rural Police, District Surgeon’s Office, District Health Office, and the Tourism Department were also present at the meeting.