A new generation of leadership is stepping into the municipal corridors of Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. Young corporators, barely in their twenties, are bringing fresh perspectives and digital-age solutions to tackle long-standing civic issues.
Meet the Young Faces of Change
Four young politicians have emerged as some of the youngest winners in the recent municipal elections. From the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), we have Saee Thopte and Siddhi Shilimkar, both just 22 years old. From the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Yash Sane and Anjali Orse, both 25 years old, have also secured victories.
These youngsters share a common belief. They think their fresh ideas can resolve civic problems more effectively. They plan to utilize technology to enhance governance. Importantly, they all promise to remain accessible to the people they represent.
Saee Thopte's Vision for Sahakarnagar-Padmavati
Saee Thopte, representing ward number 36 in Pune, has promised corruption-free governance. She is a first-year MBA student who intends to continue her education alongside her corporator duties.
Her election affidavit outlines a comprehensive plan for her ward. Key initiatives include:
- Building a modern hall and recreation centre for senior citizens.
- Implementing ward-specific waste processing projects.
- Ensuring uninterrupted water supply for residents.
- Facilitating piped gas connections across the ward.
- Installing CCTV camera surveillance in sensitive areas.
- Promoting solar energy installations on government premises.
- Holding regular dialogue sessions with citizens.
"I have been part of ABVP for five years now," Thopte said. "I know what problems the youth face. I also worked diligently in my ward for the last three months and I am aware of citizens' issues. I will work on all of them."
Yash Sane's Personal Journey in Pimpri Chinchwad
Yash Sane's entry into politics is deeply personal. His father served as the corporator of ward number 1 in Pimpri Chinchwad since 2007. "My father was always out helping people," Sane recalled. His father passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
The tragedy forced Sane to discontinue his education after Class XII. "I stepped out the next day after performing his 13th-day death rituals," he shared. "I have been trying to follow in his footsteps regarding social service. I hope to continue going forward." He also plans to complete his education.
Sane has identified several priority issues for his ward:
- Addressing traffic and parking problems on Akurdi–Chikhali Road.
- Improving overall ward cleanliness.
- Developing a fully equipped vegetable market.
- Ensuring CCTV camera surveillance for safety.
- Establishing a women's police station.
- Facilitating access to various government schemes for residents.
Anjali Orse's Tech Background for Ward 7
Anjali Orse holds a bachelor's degree in computer applications. She represents Pune's ward number 7, which includes Gokhalenagar-Wakdewadi. Orse has promised to make an honest effort to provide basic amenities to her constituents. A key focus for her is creating employment opportunities for the youth in her area.
Siddhi Shilimkar's Pledge for Transparency
Siddhi Shilimkar, with a bachelor's degree in product design, is emphasizing complete transparency. Her promises include:
- Online publication of all decisions and expenses.
- Holding regular meetings with citizens.
- Improving public transport systems.
- Promoting environmental awareness campaigns.
- Providing 24-hour access to clean water.
- Implementing efficient waste management systems.
- Developing other critical infrastructure.
- Generating new job opportunities.
The arrival of these GenZ leaders marks a significant shift in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad's political landscape. Their focus on technology, transparency, and direct citizen engagement could redefine how municipal governance functions in these important urban centers.
