PCET’s PCU and Pune Business School Host HR Excellence Awards 2026,Celebrating Leadership,Innovation and the Future of Work
Pune, June 6, 2026: Pimpri Chinchwad Education Trust (PCET), through Pimpri Chinchwad University (PCU) and Pune Business School (PBS), successfully organized the fourth edition of the HR Excellence Awards 2026, bringing together distinguished HR leaders, industry experts, academicians, and professionals from across sectors to celebrate excellence in human resource management and organizational leadership.
The prestigious event served as a platform to recognize transformative contributions in talent management, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, leadership, and workplace innovation while fostering meaningful dialogue on the future of work.
The event commenced with the ceremonial inauguration and the National Anthem, followed by the welcome of esteemed dignitaries. The distinguished gathering included Padma Shri Prataprao Pawar, Chairman and Managing Director, Sakal Papers Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Amitabh Mishra, CHRO, Adani Power Limited; Shri Narendra Landge, Management Representative, PCET; Shri Sachin Itkar, Vice Chairman, Maharashtra Economic Development Council (MEDC); Dr. Girish Desai, Executive Director, PCET; Dr. Santosh Sonawane, Vice Chancellor, PCU; Dr. Leena Deshpande, Vice President – Human Resources & Head CSR, Bharat Forge Ltd.; and Dr. Ganesh Rao, Director, Pune Business School.
Thought – Provoking Discussions on Workplace Transformation
A key highlight of the event was a series of engaging round table discussions that explored critical workplace trends and leadership challenges shaping modern organizations.
The first discussion focused on organizational priorities beyond crisis management, emphasizing the evolving expectations of employees and the importance of empathy, engagement, trust, and people – centric leadership. Participants reflected on how organizations can create meaningful workplace experiences that foster employee well-being and long – term growth.
The second discussion examined the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence and Automation in the workplace. Industry leaders shared perspectives on leveraging technology responsibly while maintaining ethical decision-making and human – centered leadership. The conversation highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with values, ensuring that technology enhances rather than replaces meaningful human interaction.
Panelists also discussed leadership in the digital era, changing workforce expectations of Generation Z and Generation Alpha, and the need for continuous adaptation among professionals across generations. The discussions underscored the significance of ethical leadership, clarity of thought, lifelong learning, courage, collaboration, and resilience in navigating an increasingly dynamic business environment.
Inspiring Address by Shri Sachin Itkar
Welcoming the audience, Shri Sachin Itkar reflected on India ’s transformative growth journey and its emergence as a global hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent. He emphasized Pune’s reputation as the “ Oxford of the East ” and its role in nurturing future – ready professionals and industry leaders.
He also acknowledged the remarkable contributions of Padma Shri Prataprao Pawar, whose efforts in agriculture, technology adoption, and farmer empowerment have positively impacted countless lives and communities.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Addressing the gathering, Padma Shri Prataprao Pawar spoke about the unprecedented opportunities available in India today and encouraged organizations to cultivate collaborative cultures rooted in innovation, knowledge – sharing, and continuous improvement. He emphasized that sustainable growth and organizational success are built through collective learning and positive engagement.
Dr. Leena Deshpande highlighted the growing importance of continuous learning and upskilling in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. While acknowledging the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence, she emphasized that empathy, human values, and the ability to positively influence lives will remain central to effective leadership and organizational success.
Recognizing Excellence in Human Resources
The HR Excellence Awards recognized outstanding individuals and organizations across a wide range of categories, including:
• HR Leader Award
• CHRO Excellence Award
• Unsung Heroes Recognition
• Talent Management Award
• Inclusion & Diversity Award
• Learning & Development and Competency Award
• HR Operations Excellence Award
• Talent Acquisition Excellence Award
• Young HR Leader Award
• HR Best Practices Award
The awards celebrated innovation, commitment, and excellence in building people-centric organizations and driving impactful workplace transformation.
Inauguration of Pune Management School
Adding another milestone to the event, Pune Management School (formerly known as the School of Management) was formally inaugurated under Pimpri Chinchwad University. The inauguration, led by Dr. Amit Patil, Dean & Head, Pune Management School, reflects PCU ’ s continued commitment to strengthening academic excellence, industry integration, and future-focused management education.
Special Address by Chief Guest IPS Shri Krishna Prakash
The event featured an inspiring session by Chief Guest IPS Shri Krishna Prakash, who emphasized the vital role HR professionals play in shaping organizational culture, managing relationships, and nurturing people.
In a memorable remark, he stated that HR leaders deserve special recognition because they “felicitate those who felicitate others.” Drawing from his leadership experiences, he spoke about purpose, energy, responsibility, discipline, and passion, encouraging HR professionals to continue inspiring individuals and teams while creating lasting positive impact within organizations.
A Celebration of Leadership and Human Capital Excellence
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Pranav Charkha, Director – Industry Institute Interaction, PCU, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, award recipients, nominees, faculty members, industry partners, and participants for their valuable contributions.
The fourth edition of the HR Excellence Awards concluded with a group photograph, commemorating a successful celebration of leadership, innovation, collaboration, and excellence in human capital development. The event reaffirmed PCET, PCU, and Pune Business School’s commitment to fostering meaningful industry – academia engagement and recognizing the leaders shaping the future of work.
