PUNE

Pune has industries ranging from Information Technology (IT) and automobile manufacturing to pharmaceuticals and education. The city hosts major IT companies, leading automobile producers in Chakan and Pimpri-Chinchwad, and institutions like the Serum Institute of India. Industrial zones, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), and research centers support business growth and employment.

Pune’s IT industry has expanded rapidly since Infosys was established in 1981, with major growth occurring during the late 1990s and early 2000s due to the dot-com boom. Today, the city has several key IT hubs, including Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjewadi, EON Free Zone in Kharadi, Cybercity in Magarpatta, and SP Infocity in Phursungi. Other IT clusters are located in Viman Nagar and Kalyani Nagar. These zones house a mix of multinational corporations and startups, making IT one of Pune’s most significant industries.

Pune is one of India’s largest automobile manufacturing regions, with around 4,000 production units concentrated in Pimpri-Chinchwad. The industry took shape in the mid-1960s when Bajaj Auto and Tata Motors set up plants in the area. Chakan, often called ‘Motor City,’ is home to leading manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz and Tata Motors, while Talegaon and Pimpri also contribute significantly to automobile production. The industry benefits from skilled labor from local educational institutions and a well-developed transportation network.

Pune has a well-established manufacturing sector producing machinery, hardware, and electrical components. Industrial development began in 1945 with the Kirloskar brothers and has since expanded into key manufacturing zones, including Ranjangaon, Supa, Chakan, and Bhosari. The district is also emerging as a center for Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM), supported by government policies and industrial infrastructure.

Pune is a leading center for pharmaceuticals, with the Serum Institute of India, founded in 1966, being one of the largest vaccine producers in the world. Other pharmaceutical firms include Lupin Pharma Park in Wakad. Research institutions such as the National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV) further support innovation in this sector. The Serum Bio Pharma Park in Hadapsar serves as a dedicated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for biopharmaceutical production.

The aerospace and defense sector has grown with institutions such as the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) and major companies like Tata Motors and Bharat Forge involved in military equipment production. Government contracts and defense manufacturing policies have contributed to the sector’s expansion, positioning Pune as a key player in defense technology and innovation.

Pune has been shaped by several influential families who have played a significant role in industry, business, and innovation. These families have contributed to sectors such as pharmaceuticals, engineering, manufacturing, finance, and food enterprises, leaving a lasting impact on the region. Some of the most notable among them include the Poonawalla, Kalyani, Bajaj, Kirloskar, Chitale, Gadgil, and Firodia families.

There are a total of 23 operational SEZs Pune Cluster, having more than 300 units. The Khed city industrial zone is the largest SEZ in the district. Other SEZs include the Serum Bi Pharma Park (Serum Institute of India), Infosys Ltd (Hinjewadi Phase I of Infotech Park), Embassy Tech Zone (Hinjewadi), Magarpatta Township, EON Kharadi Free Zone, etc. These zones and townships have been successful in boosting economic productivity, higher industrial growth, and improved standard of living.

According to the Maharashtra Economic Survey Report of 2018-19, Pune accounts for a quarter of the state's 'red' industries, which are associated with high pollution levels. The district faces significant environmental challenges, including the highest rates of sewage disposal into rivers and hazardous waste dumping. Industries in Pune have an Industrial Pollution Index (PI) score exceeding 60 out of 100, categorizing them as 'red.'

Air pollution from industrial zones has noticeably increased, with residents reporting poor air quality, especially in the early morning hours. The influx of people migrating to Pune for IT jobs has contributed to a growing population and heightened traffic congestion, leading to increased noise and air pollution, particularly during peak hours around 10 AM and 7 PM.

According to the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) environment status report for 2022-23, noise levels in commercial areas frequently exceed permissible limits, with maximum sound levels set at 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night for residential zones. However, these limits are often disregarded, leading to significant disturbances for residents. The lack of police presence to enforce noise regulations exacerbates the situation, leaving residents feeling helpless against the ongoing nuisance.

Pune’s industries are expanding, with new businesses emerging in coaching institutes, dining, and organic products. The city’s strong base in IT and education encourages entrepreneurship, especially among women and small-scale business owners. While the handicrafts sector is declining, it remains a valued part of Pune’s heritage. Meanwhile, the IT, automobile, and manufacturing industries continue to grow, providing employment and shaping the economy.

People from different parts of Maharashtra and other states migrate to Pune for work and education. This movement brings skilled professionals, laborers, and students, adding to the city's diverse workforce and economy.

New businesses are flourishing, with many startups finding success. Companies like Firstcry, Faasos, and Druva have grown from Pune, showing their ability to support innovation and new ventures.