Pune People’s Co-operative Bank marked a historic milestone as it entered its Amrit Mahotsav year, completing 75 years of dedicated service. A grand programme was held at Ganesh Kala Krida Rangmanch, where the Amrit Mahotsav logo was unveiled and the prestigious Pune People’s Award was conferred.
State Cooperation Commissioner and Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Deepak Tavare, said that banks should not be evaluated solely on financial figures. In the cooperative sector, social contribution is equally important. Recalling the bank’s origins as a bank of auto-rickshaw drivers, he noted that even today Pune People’s Bank reflects a strong social outlook through its initiatives.
The Pune People’s Award was presented to Dr. Rajendra Dhamane and Dr. Sucheta Dhamane, founders of Mauli Seva Pratishthan, Ahilyanagar, for their exemplary work for women suffering from mental illness. The award included a cash prize of Rs 1.01 lakh, Puneri pagdi, shawl, citation and memento.
Chief guest Dr. Parag Kalkar, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Savitribai Phule Pune University, said the cooperative movement must work for the upliftment of the last person in society, a principle Pune People’s Bank has consistently upheld.
Bank President Shridhar Gaikwad highlighted that the bank’s total business has grown from Rs 400 crore to Rs 2,750 crore in 17 years, with zero NPAs and 12–15% dividends. The bank now targets Rs 5,000 crore business in the coming years, reinforcing its blend of financial strength and social responsibility.