Pune, located 170 kilometers southeast of Mumbai on the confluence of Mula and Mutha rivers, has been the cultural capital of Maharashtra since ages. In the past few decades, it has emerged as one of the biggest industrial regions of India. It is home to some of the largest automotive groups in the country such as Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto and Mahindra.

Pune is also known as the “Oxford of the East” because it has been the leading educational center of the country. It boasts a leading university, over 18 engineering colleges and numerous other educational institutions. Additionally, it is also home to some of the leading research organizations in the country such as National Chemical Laboratory, National Informatics Center, Institute of Armament Technology, National AIDS Research Institute, C-DAC, Defence Research and Development Organization and many more.

Pune has played an important role in history of India. For many years, Pune was the pulse of the Maratha Empire and several leading personalities have emerged from this city. Chathrapati Shivaji, the king of Maratha, who defied the Muslim emperor Aurangzeb and established the powerful Maratha kingdom grew up in Pune. The city also served as the capital of the mighty Peshwas Empire through the 17th and 18th century. After the rise of British Empire, Pune became the leading educational center in India. The city has provided India with many social reformers, revolutionaries, political leaders, scientists, artists and players.

Today, Pune is fast emerging as a leading high-tech and research center in the country. Several multinational and Indian technology companies have setup large offices in and around Pune. The city also has thriving software technology parks (STP) in Hingewadi, Kharade and Magarpatta. In the coming years, Pune is poised to grow further and become a major high-tech hub of the country.