K J Patel succeeds Dr. U S Awasthi, who retires after four decades.
In a big leadership shift, India's largest fertiliser sector cooperative, Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) appointed K J Patel as its new Managing Director (MD) with effect from July 31, 2025. The appointment was made by IFFCO Chairman Dileep Sanghani from the company's headquarters in New Delhi, as veteran MD Dr. U S Awasthi retired after a stellar 32-year tenure at the helm.
K J Patel, who was the Director (Technical) at IFFCO earlier, has over 32 years of experience in the technical operation and maintenance of nitrogenous and phosphatic fertiliser units. Patel is a Mechanical Engineering alumnus from Saurashtra University and has served key roles at IFFCO's Kalol and Paradeep plants, the latter being India's largest fertiliser complex. His vast technical knowledge and years of association with the organisation are considered chief strengths as IFFCO steps into the digital age of growth and green development.
Speaking of the appointment, IFFCO Chairman Dileep Sanghani said, "K J Patel has vast industry experience and a tried and tested strategic thinking strategy which is in harmony with the goals of IFFCO. We have every expectation that under his guidance, IFFCO will continue its journey of excellence and service to Indian farmers." Patel has also been attributed with enhancing operational excellence and productivity of the Paradeep unit while heading it as a leader.
Dr. U S Awasthi’s retirement marks the end of a transformative chapter for IFFCO. Dr. Awasthi took charge as MD in 1993, was instrumental in driving IFFCO to the top of the list as a global fertiliser leader. Under him, the company's production capacity and financial performance soared, and IFFCO diversified into other business avenues and pioneered agri-technological solutions. Dr. Awasthi’s leadership has cemented his legacy in India’s cooperative and agricultural landscape.
With K J Patel joining the team and Dileep Sanghani remaining as Chairman, IFFCO's leadership guarantees that it will continue to focus on Indian farmers with relentless innovation, building cooperatives, and creating value. Speeding up digitalisation and sustainability will be the top priority of the new MD, keeping IFFCO at the forefront of the global fertiliser industry.
