Pimpri-Chinchwad’s ‘Education Hub’ Vision Now Bolstered by Research!
Establishment of an ₹800-crore battery research center in Chikhali
Agreement signed between COEP Technological University and JSW Projects
Pimpri-Chinchwad | The vision of transforming Pimpri-Chinchwad into an ‘Education Hub’ is now set to be strengthened by advanced research capabilities. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between COEP Technological University and JSW Projects to establish an indigenous battery research and development center at the Research Park in Chikhali. BJP MLA Mahesh Landge has welcomed this project, which entails a proposed investment of over ₹800 crore.
Landge stated that new opportunities for industry, research, and employment are being created in Maharashtra under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He expressed confidence that this project in Chikhali would give a new direction to the educational and industrial potential of Pimpri-Chinchwad. The agreement was signed by Registrar Dr. D. N. Sonawane on behalf of COEP and Executive Vice President Naresh Lalwani on behalf of the JSW Group.
The proposed center will focus on the research, prototyping, and validation of battery cells based on Lithium-ion, Sodium-ion, and other advanced technologies. The center is planned to be developed in two phases and is expected to generate 1,000 employment opportunities. It may also provide students and young engineers with the chance to work directly with cutting-edge technology. Regarding this partnership, JSW Group Chairman Sajjan Jindal remarked, “Cells are the new fuel of this century, and the time has come to manufacture them right here in India.” He also expressed confidence that the partnership with COEP would add a new dimension to the sectors of industry, research, and education. MLA Landge stated that he has resolved to develop Pimpri-Chinchwad into an ‘Education Hub.’ He highlighted the ongoing efforts to bring educational opportunities to the city through initiatives such as the Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Santpeeth, as well as the presence of COEP and IIM Nagpur. He noted that the battery research center in Chikhali would now add an industry-linked research dimension to this vision. Landge congratulated COEP Technological University and JSW Projects on their partnership to develop indigenous battery technology. He expressed hope that the proposed investment would foster high-quality research, skill development, and employment opportunities for local youth.
Pimpri-Chinchwad is known as an industrial city. We are now resolved to complement this industrial strength with education and indigenous research. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendraji Fadnavis, this project in Chikhali will create new opportunities for young engineers. I extend my heartfelt thanks to COEP Technological University and JSW Projects. I am confident that the proposed investment will generate tangible opportunities for skill development and employment for local youth.
– Mahesh Landge, MLA, BJP, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune.
