In a significant leadership transition, K. J. Patel has been appointed as the new Managing Director of the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), one of the world’s largest and most influential fertilizer cooperatives. This was announced by IFFCO Chairman Dileep Sanghani, marking a new era for the organization, known for its farmer-centric innovation and global cooperative leadership.

Prior to this elevation, Patel served as Director (Technical) at IFFCO. A Mechanical Engineering graduate from Saurashtra University, he brings over 32 years of hands-on industry experience, particularly in the operation and maintenance of nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizer plants.

Patel also led IFFCO’s Paradeep Unit – India’s largest fertilizer complex – where his leadership was instrumental in enhancing both productivity and operational excellence.

Chairman Dileep Sanghani said, “K. J. Patel brings with him deep industry knowledge and a strategic mindset that aligns well with IFFCO’s goals. We are confident he will lead the organization into a new era of innovation and value creation.”

He emphasized that Patel’s technical expertise and long-standing association with IFFCO will help further its mission to empower Indian farmers through sustainable and affordable fertilizer solutions.

The leadership transition also marks the retirement of Dr. U. S. Awasthi, who has served as Managing Director for several decades. Under his stewardship, IFFCO achieved multiple milestones, including its recent ranking as the World’s No.1 Cooperative in terms of contribution to GDP, according to the World Cooperative Monitor, a joint initiative of EURICSE and the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA).

Chairman Sanghani said, “Dr. Awasthi’s contributions have been invaluable in shaping IFFCO’s journey and its impact on farmers across the country. His legacy is deeply embedded in IFFCO’s DNA.”