Pune is the second-largest city in the state of Maharashtra after Mumbai and is the Cultural and intellectual capital of Maharashtra. Pune has a glorious history of nearly 1600 years. Once the centre of power for the Maratha Empire, Pune’s rich historical past has made it the cultural capital of Maharashtra. The city’s historical associations are fast woven with Shivaji Maharaj, the Peshwas and leading leaders of India’s freedom struggle. The climate of Pune is pleasant and good for health. In winter, day temperatures can be as low as 24 - 28°C and temperatures at night as low as 5 - 8°C. Winters are generally dry. Normally, the climate in Pune is pleasant during the month of November and December. The city is a cultural centre for theatre, classical music, dance, film and literature; and represents a synthesis of modern science and ancient wisdom.

Pune is the main educational center of Maharashtra. The city of Pune houses many wellknown, established institutes and colleges. Savitribai Phule Pune University is one of the finest and most popular educational centers in the city. Home to many colleges and universities, Pune is considered a prestigious educational destination, winning itself the title of “The Oxford of the East”. The city boasts of the National Defense Academy, Institute of Military Engineering, the Film and Television Institute, Armed Forces Medical College, and College of Archaeological studies and many similar statures of institutions.

Pune has seen spectacular economic growth in recent years with the manufacturing, automobile and IT sectors emerging as key industries. Pune is ranked as the seventhlargest metropolitan economy with a strong industrial base and has the sixth-highest income per capita in India. Pune is a popular travel destination boasting many natural and historical tourist attractions. The city is easy to navigate and is filled with art and history and has a bustling nightlife. Pune has some of India’s most beautiful and eye-catching architecture. A prominent historical landmark in the city is Shaniwarwada, a majestic fort built in 1732 and the seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. Another famous landmark is Aga Khan Palace, Parvati Hill, Osho Ashram; Shinde Chhatri, the Pataleshwar Cave Temple, etc. According to the Ease of Living Index 2020, Pune was ranked as the secondbest city to live in India. Pune is among the 109 cities shortlisted in India’s Smart Cities Mission. Pune is definitely marching toward achieving international stature and repute, and developing into a globally recognized, vibrant and dynamic education and industry-based economy.