Dr Pramod Chaudhari is a first-generation techno-entrepreneur who founded Praj Industries in 1983 with a vision to create innovative and sustainable solutions for the agri-processing sector. He is the Executive Chairman of Praj Industries, a global leader in bioenergy, biochemical, and biopharma technologies and engineering solutions. He is also a passionate advocate of environmental protection and bioeconomy, and has been instrumental in developing and deploying clean and green technologies that reduce carbon emissions and enhance the circular economy.

Dr Chaudhari has a rich and diverse experience in the field of engineering, technology, and entrepreneurship. He graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay in 1971 with a degree in mechanical engineering and later completed the Advanced Management Program from Harvard Business School in 1995. He started his career with a Danish shipping company, Maersk, and worked in various countries for eight years. He then returned to India and joined his father's business, which was a small engineering company that manufactured heat exchangers and pressure vessels. He soon realized the potential of the agro-based industry in India and decided to start his own venture, Praj Industries, with a focus on ethanol and brewery plants.

Praj Industries has grown from a small start-up to a world-class engineering company that specializes in bioenergy, biochemical, and biopharma solutions. Praj Industries has more than 1,000 installations in over 100 countries across five continents, and has a strong presence in India, South-East Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Europe. Praj Industries offers end-to-end technology and engineering solutions for bioethanol, biodiesel, compressed biogas, renewable chemicals, and biopharmaceuticals. Praj Industries also has a state-of-the-art research and development center, Praj Matrix, which is the hub of innovation and excellence for the company. Praj Matrix has developed several breakthrough technologies, such as the second-generation ethanol technology, which converts agricultural waste into ethanol, and the Enfinity technology, which converts ethanol into bio-based chemicals.

Dr Chaudhari is deeply passionate about bioeconomy and environment, and is committed to developing and deploying technologies that mitigate climate change and promote sustainability. He believes that bioeconomy is the way forward for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as it offers a holistic approach to utilize renewable biological resources for producing food, feed, fuel, chemicals, and materials while ensuring environmental, social, and economic benefits. He has been a pioneer and a leader in the bioeconomy sector, and has been instrumental in shaping the policies and regulations for biofuels and bio-based products in India and abroad. He has also been actively involved in various national and international forums and associations, such as the Biofuture Platform, the World BioEconomy Forum, the Indian Federation of Green Energy, and the Bioenergy Association of India, to promote and advocate the cause of bioeconomy and sustainability.

Dr Chaudhari has received several awards and recognition for his outstanding contribution to the bioeconomy and environment. He is the first Indian to receive the prestigious George Washington Carver Award 2020 by BIO-Impact, Washington DC, USA, which is the highest recognition for innovation in industrial biotechnology and agriculture. He is also the recipient of the Holmberg Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Bioeconomy by the World BioEconomy Forum, Finland, which is the highest honor for an individual who has made a significant impact on the development of the bioeconomy. He has also been conferred with the Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Distinguished Service Award by IIT Bombay, the BioSpectrum Leadership Award, the ABP Majha Sanman Puraskar, and the Asia's Greatest Leader Award, among others.

Dr Chaudhari is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a socially responsible citizen. He believes in giving back to the society and the environment and supports various causes and initiatives through the Praj Foundation, which is the corporate social responsibility arm of Praj Industries. The Praj Foundation focuses on the areas of healthcare, education, water conservation, and women empowerment, and has implemented several projects and programs to benefit the underprivileged communities. Dr Chaudhari is also an avid traveler, reader, and sports enthusiast, and enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

Dr Chaudhari is an inspiration for many aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders who want to make a positive difference in the world. He believes that innovation and entrepreneurship can change the world for the better, and he strives to use his skills and knowledge for the benefit of all. He hopes that his company will not only provide high-quality bioeconomy and engineering solutions, but also contribute to the well-being and happiness of the people and the planet.