Pune Growth Hub Initiative Approved with PMRDA as Lead Agency

The Maharashtra government has designated the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) as the implementing agency for the Pune growth hub initiative. This decision comes as part of a broader economic master plan that aims to drive infrastructure and economic development in the rapidly expanding Pune Metropolitan Region (PMR).

The initiative mirrors the successful framework established in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and is intended to support key sectors such as information technology, automobile manufacturing, agriculture, and education. The plan will establish 18 integrated development centres to facilitate targeted growth across these industries.

Framework and Oversight Committees Established

On September 15, 2025, the official order was issued by Charushila Chaudhary, Joint Secretary of the Planning Department, confirming this strategic initiative. To ensure effective management and execution, three committees have been formed to oversee the preparation and implementation of the Pune Metropolitan Region Economic Master Plan.

The first of these is the growth hub executive committee, which will be led by the divisional commissioner and will consist of 23 members. This committee will focus on reviewing the planning and execution of the master plan.

The second committee is the growth hub coordination committee, chaired by the guardian minister of Pune and comprised of 22 members. This group will provide guidance and monitor the plan’s progress. Finally, the summit committee, which includes 25 members and is headed by the Chief Minister, will approve the master plan and review its implementation on an annual basis.

Alignment with National Growth Policies

This initiative aligns with a national strategy led by NITI Aayog, which is focused on developing economic growth policies in select regions across India. The “Growth Hub” model is currently being piloted in four other cities: Mumbai, Surat (Gujarat), Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh).

A senior official from the state planning department remarked on the significance of this initiative, highlighting the creation of a dedicated Project Implementation Unit to manage daily operations. This structured approach aims to ensure that the Pune growth hub achieves its goals efficiently and effectively, contributing to the region’s overall development.

As the Pune Metropolitan Region embarks on this ambitious economic plan, stakeholders are optimistic that it will pave the way for enhanced infrastructure, increased investment, and job creation, ultimately transforming the area into a key driver of economic growth in India.