Pune: Naval Kishor Ram Assumes Charge as Municipal Commissioner, Vows Citizen-Centric Development
Pune, June 1, 2025 – Naval Kishor Ram officially took charge as the new Municipal Commissioner of Pune on Saturday, emphasizing citizen-centric projects and improving the city’s livability. Despite it being a holiday, heads of all Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) departments were present to welcome him, followed by an introductory meeting with civic officials.
Ram succeeds Rajendra Bhosale, who retired on May 31. A seasoned IAS officer, Ram previously served as Pune’s District Collector during the COVID-19 pandemic and later as Deputy Director in the Prime Minister’s Office.
“My priority is to execute citizen-centric projects and enhance ease of living for residents. Several pending projects will be given a fresh push,” Ram stated after assuming office.
Key challenges ahead include the upcoming municipal elections, delayed infrastructure projects due to the absence of an elected general body, and ongoing works such as metro rail expansion, riverfront development, equitable water distribution, and river rejuvenation (supported by JICA).
With the monsoon already setting in, Ram will also need to oversee flood preparedness and disaster management—critical given Pune’s recent flash floods. Additionally, the lack of corporators in recent years has stalled new projects, placing greater responsibility on the commissioner to drive development.
Ram’s prior experience as District Collector and his working rapport with Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar are expected to aid in addressing civic challenges effectively.
