The Pune International Centre (PIC), a think tank with over a decade of contributions to policy-making, research, and innovation moved to its new seven-acre campus in Pashan on Sunday. The eco-friendly facility is being developed at a cost of ₹75 crore.
The new campus includes an auditorium, an art gallery, and specialised centres for research on national security, foreign policy, governance, social innovation, and art and culture. Additional facilities include a main administrative building, research wing, convention hall, and spaces for hosting global events.
Established in 2011 under the leadership of Dr Vijay Kelkar, PIC has grown into a hub for knowledge exchange and policy development.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr Raghunath Mashelkar, president of PIC, described it as a “melting pot for ideas, creativity, and transformation,” emphasizing Pune’s legacy as a city of intellectual and cultural leadership.
Dr. Kelkar, vice president of PIC, highlighted its commitment to independence from government influence.
“When we conceptualized PIC, we aimed to create a truly independent think tank that challenges the notion that Delhi alone can lead such efforts. PIC’s research will be consensus-driven and knowledge-based,” he said.
He also stressed PIC’s focus on sustainable development, climate change, and making Pune carbon neutral, with plans to bring its research to the national level.
{{/usCountry}}He also stressed PIC’s focus on sustainable development, climate change, and making Pune carbon neutral, with plans to bring its research to the national level.
{{/usCountry}}Dr Ravi Pandit, treasurer of PIC, underscored the centre’s mission of achieving “excellence through elegance and objectivity” while promoting fact-based, implementable research. Secretary general Prashant Girbane recounted the journey of PIC’s creation and the development of the new campus.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Maj. Gen. Nitin Gadkari.