India, Dec. 16 -- After nearly nine years - almost four of them without elected representatives - all major political parties are set to contest the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) elections, turning the spotlight on control of the civic body's Rs.12,618-crore budget. Crucial for citizens as they expect basic amenities from the local government, the polls will also give residents of 23 villages, merged into PMC limits, their first opportunity to elect local representatives and press for long-pending infrastructure and basic services.

Spread over 480 sq km, PMC is the largest municipal corporation in Maharashtra by area. Its population has grown from 35.5 lakh in 2011 to over 52 lakh, according to PMC's 2024 budget report. The total elec...