The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
MUMBAI, JUNE 2, 2025
The Fertiliser Association of India (FAI), the apex body representing the country’s fertiliser sector spanning Public Sector, Joint Sector, and Private Sector enterprises, has announced the election of Sailesh C. Mehta, Chairman & Managing Director of Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd and Mahadhan Agri Tech Ltd, as its new Chairman.
Bringing over 40 years of distinguished leadership in the industry, Mehta has long been recognized as a visionary in the agricultural and chemical sectors. He previously held the role of Chairman of FAI’s Western Region for over five years, where he led several impactful initiatives focused on innovation, efficiency, and farmer engagement.
FAI’s announcement comes at a pivotal time for India’s agricultural sector. Over the past two decades, the fertiliser industry has been instrumental in boosting agricultural output by 60% and horticulture output by 40%, contributing significantly to India’s transformation from a food-scarce nation to a global agri-export powerhouse.
Speaking on his appointment, Mehta said: “India’s journey from food scarcity to global agri-exporter has been remarkable. The Fertiliser Industry continues to play a vital role in this journey, now with a focus on more balanced and nutrient-efficient fertilisers that support sustainable growth. I am truly privileged to serve as a bridge between Government, Industry and our farmers – acting as a catalyst to elevate Indian farmer and farm productivity on the world map.”
Under Mehta’s leadership, the FAI is expected to intensify its efforts toward promoting innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation across the fertiliser value chain, while ensuring timely and effective delivery of subsidized fertilisers to millions of Indian farmers.
