Launch of FLO Pune Chapter

Chief Guest: Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra

The 12thChapter of FLO was launched at PuneonJanuary 27, 2015, marking the presence of FLO in Pune, the seventh-most populous city in India and the second largest in the state of Maharashtra.

Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra was the Chief Guest at the session. In his keynote address, Shri Fadnavis said, “It is indeed very hearting that FLO has marked its presence in the state of Maharashtra in a big way- with its Mumbai Chapter which was launched in 2002. Now, the 12th Chapter of FLO has been launched at Pune. A hearty welcome to FLO at Pune. We envisage a plethora of activities that would be undertaken by the new Chapter, towards skill development and capacity building amongst women.”

The programme was very well attended, with several dynamic women entrepreneurs and professionals from Pune and neighbouring cities participating in it. Past Presidents of FLO, Abha Dalmia, Kiran Gera&Neena Malhotra, Vice President Vinita Bimbhet, Treasurer Anuja Narain &Executive Director Dr. Manju Kalra Prakash, Governing Body Members and members from pan-India also attended the same.

Ms Neeta Boochra, President- FLO, while welcoming the distinguished guests and the members of the new chapter, said, “Pune exerts a significant impact upon commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research and education.Pune is also emerging as a prominent location for IT and manufacturing. It has the seventh largest metropolitan economy and the sixth highest per capita income in the country. It is indeed very strategic location for the 12th Chapter. I look forward to work collectively towards nurturing the new chapter and work towards the objective of FLO to empower women from all spheres”.

She also added, “When it comes to competitive entrepreneurship, women in Pune have grabbed a significant foothold in various industries. FLO endeavours to promote women entrepreneurs and professionals and assist women entrepreneurs to grow them professionally in Pune and the launch ofthis Chapter will help bring existing entrepreneurs, potentials entrepreneurs and other professionals under the FLO umbrella”.

Ms. Boochra also said that FLO is thankful for the support received from the Government of Maharashtra and looks forward to various collaborative endeavours towards skill development and other activities for women empowerment not only in Pune but also the neighboring cities.

Pune Chapter will work towards promoting entrepreneurship and professional excellence in women, as also undertake various activities pertaining to women empowerment at three levels- grassroots, middle & senior, through various capacity building, skill upgradation, policy advocacy , industry round tables and thought leadership amongst other activities.

The Chapter will also aim at enhancing the capabilities of women through appropriate awareness, training and development programmes that enables women to contribute towards India’s socio economic growth by fulfilling their individual potential.

Ms Varsha Talera was announced as the first Chairperson of Pune Chapter. In her acceptance speech, MsTalera said “I am thankful to FLO for giving me this opportunity. I hope I am able to meet all the demands this position calls. I am looking forward to working with all of you and contribute my best. With all your support, it won’t be impossible”.