Pune is witnessing a surge in trade, leading to a shortage of market yard space. Addressing this issue, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar urged the state government to take a proactive stand. His remarks came during the launch of the golden jubilee special issue of ‘Vanijya Vishwa’ magazine, which serves as the official mouthpiece of The Poona Merchant Chamber. Pawar, on behalf of the chamber, also awarded scholarships to two professors and eight students from BMCC (Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce).
The event was attended by prominent figures such as entrepreneur Vitthalsheth Maniyar, Fattechand Ranka, Chamber President Rajendra Bathia, Secretary Raikumar Nahar, Vice President Ajit Bora, Joint Secretary Ishwar Nahar, ‘Vanijya Vishwa’ Editor Praveen Chorbele, Joint Editor Ashish Dugad, and BMCC Principal Jagdish Lanjekar.
Pawar highlighted the historical context of grain trade, which used to be centered in Nana Peth. Despite facing opposition to its relocation, the traders were eventually convinced, resulting in a manifold increase in trade. Pawar emphasized the need for the state government’s intervention to address the insufficient market yard space in Pune, considering its significance as an industrial and trade hub.
Rajendra Bathia, in his remarks, acknowledged the challenges posed by e-commerce to traditional trade. He also raised concerns regarding the timely arrival of farmers’ produce at market committees in Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, and Nashik. Bathia urged the government to refrain from implementing a one percent cess and emphasized the importance of market regulation to sustain the trade.
During the event, the ‘Vanijyaratna’ award was conferred upon Purushottami Sharma, Pradeep Lokhande, and Dr. Sanjay Kandalgaonkar. Additionally, Adv. Subhash Kivade and Dilip Salvekar were recognized with special honors.
Praveen Chorbele, the editor of ‘Vanijya Vishwa,’ provided an overview of the magazine’s progress, while Vitthalsheth Maniyar explained the rationale behind initiating the scholarship program. Secretary Raikumar Nahar introduced the attendees, and Ishwar Nahar expressed gratitude for their participation. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis conveyed his best wishes for the golden jubilee program of ‘Vanijya Vishwa’ through a video message.
Sharad Pawar’s advocacy for addressing the issue of insufficient market yard space in Pune underscores the importance of creating a conducive environment for trade and commerce. With his plea to the state government, Pawar seeks to ensure that the growth and prosperity of Pune’s trade industry are sustained in the long run.
