International Mastermind Meet on Multidisciplinary Research & Innovation for Viksit Bharat (IM3–2026) Concludes Successfully at Pimpri Chinchwad University
Pimpri Chinchwad University (PCU), Pune, successfully hosted the International Mastermind Meet on Multidisciplinary Research & Innovation for Viksit Bharat (IM3–2026) on 9th and 10th July 2026 at the University's new academic building. The two-day international conference brought together eminent academicians, scientists, researchers, innovators, industry experts, policymakers, and international delegates to exchange ideas and foster multidisciplinary research collaborations aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The conference was inaugurated by Shri Harshwardhan Patil, Hon'ble Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University, who emphasized the importance of startup–driven research, Artificial Intelligence, green energy, climate resilience, and global collaboration in building a developed India.
The conference also marked the inauguration of the IM3–2026 Research Publication Paper Presentation by Dr. Girish Desai, Executive Director, Pimpri Chinchwad Education Trust (PCET), reaffirming the University's commitment to promoting high–quality research, scholarly publications, and academic excellence.
A major highlight of the conference was the unveiling of the IM3–2026 Abstract Book by Shri Harshwardhan Patil, Hon'ble Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University; Dr. Santosh S. Sonawane, Vice Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University; and the distinguished dignitaries on the dais. The publication featured 175 peer–reviewed research abstracts spanning multiple disciplines, showcasing innovative research and scientific contributions from academicians and researchers across India and abroad.
Dr. Santosh S. Sonawane, Vice Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University, reaffirmed the University's vision of creating a strong ecosystem for research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry–academia collaboration. Dr. Bharat Kale, Director – Research & Development, PCU, and Chairman of IM3–2026, welcomed the delegates and highlighted the significance of multidisciplinary research in addressing global challenges.
The conference featured distinguished keynote addresses from leading experts representing renowned institutions across India and abroad, covering emerging areas including Artificial Intelligence, advanced materials, renewable energy, nanotechnology, precision agriculture, climate change, computational modelling, cancer therapeutics, sustainable technologies, drug discovery, and ecosystem engineering.
A major milestone of the event was the announcement of a ₹10 crore advanced research facility for Pimpri Chinchwad University, established through an academic association with Digitech Robotics India Pvt. Ltd. The initiative is expected to significantly strengthen industry-oriented education, advanced research, and innovation opportunities for students and faculty.
IM3–2026 Highlights
- More than 200 registered participants from academia, research organizations, and industry.
- 175 research abstracts received and published in the official conference Abstract Book.
- 32 distinguished speakers from India and across the globe.
- 15 international delegates, with comprehensive hospitality and accommodation arrangements facilitated by the University.
- Four multidisciplinary technical tracks covering:
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Computational Modelling & Simulation
- Materials Design & Devices
- Ecosystem, Recycling & Systems Engineering
The conference also demonstrated strong industry engagement, securing over ₹5 lakh through direct industry outreach while generating supplementary revenue through participant registrations, reflecting the growing confidence of industry and academia in the IM3 platform.
The valedictory session celebrated the success of the conference with the presentation of Best Paper Awards across various technical tracks and recognition of sponsors, organizing committees, reviewers, volunteers, faculty members, and industry partners who contributed to the successful execution of the event.
Guidance & Leadership
The successful organization of IM3–2026 was made possible under the guidance of:
- Shri Dnyaneshwar Landge – Chairman, PCET
- Smt. Padmatai M. Bhosale – Vice Chairperson, PCET
- Shri Vitthal Kalbhor – Secretary, PCET
- Shri Shantaram Garade – Treasurer, PCET
- Shri Narendra Landge – Management Representative, PCET
- Shri Ajinkya Kalbhor – Management Representative, Pimpri Chinchwad University
- Shri Harshwardhan Patil – Hon'ble Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University
- Dr. Girish Desai – Executive Director, PCET
IM3–2026 concluded as a landmark international conference that strengthened global academic partnerships, promoted multidisciplinary research, encouraged industry collaboration, and reinforced Pimpri Chinchwad University's commitment to becoming a leading hub for research, innovation, and technology–driven education.
