IFFCO: Dr Awasthi bids farewell after 40 Yrs of Visionary Leadership

In a poignant milestone for the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), the world’s No. 1 fertilizer cooperative, Dr. Udai Shanker Awasthi, Managing Director, will rest his illustrious tenure on July 31, 2025, after attaining the age of 80 years.

This superannuation marks over four decades of unwavering dedication, during which Dr. Awasthi has profoundly shaped IFFCO’s trajectory, elevating it to unparalleled global prominence. His heart beats for the farmers and cooperatives which inspired him to dedicate his life for their welfare, says a release mailed by the IFFCO.

A chemical engineer from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Dr. Awasthi joined IFFCO in November 1976, ascending through various pivotal roles before assuming the mantle of Managing Director in 1993. As a thorough professional in the chemicals and fertilizer industry, he orchestrated IFFCO’s metamorphosis into a world-renowned, professionally managed cooperative conglomerate. Under his stewardship, IFFCO not only achieved rapid advancements in the global fertilizer sector but also diversified into multifaceted ventures that have directly empowered farmers across India.

Dr. Awasthi’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in forging IFFCO’s expansive global footprint, with strategic investments in ICS Senegal, Oman, Jordan, and the UAE through Oman IFFCO Company (OMIFCO), Jordan India Fertilizer Company (JIFCO) and Kisan International Trading (KIT) respectively. His diversification initiatives birthed landmark joint ventures, including IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance Company, a collaboration with Japan’s Tokio Marine Group, the world’s largest insurer, which has emerged as a leading force in India’s insurance landscape.

Another notable achievement is the formation of IFFCO-Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), dedicated to delivering affordable and safe crop protection solutions. Beyond these, IFFCO ventured into e-commerce through IFFCO Bazar, IFFDC was established to work in sector of forestry and seed production, for logistics IFFCO Kisan Logistics Ltd. was established, IFFCO Kisan Suvidha Limited and IFFCO Kisan Finance were established for Agri-tech innovations, and rural finance respectively, all under his guidance, fostering holistic growth for the agricultural community.

Dr Awasthi is the pioneer of Nanotechnology in Agriculture sector he felicitated establishment of Nano-Biotechnology Research Centre in Kalol and IFFCO Nanoventions Pvt. Ltd. for new nano-technology related innovations which led to the inception of IFFCO Nano Urea Plus, Nano DAP, Nano Zinc and Nano Copper. Under his tenure Nano Fertilizer Plants were established in all existing units i.e., Kalol & Kandla (Gujrat), Aonla & Phulpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Paradeep (Odisha) and new plants were established in Bengaluru, Deoghar and another one is coming up in Assam.

His extraordinary contributions have earned him prestigious accolades, including the global Rochdale Pioneers Award from the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), the title of “Fertiliser Man of India” bestowed by Shakar Bharati and Shri Dattatreya Hosbole, Sarkaryavah-RSS, and leadership positions in the International Fertiliser Association and the Fertiliser Association of India. These honours stand as testaments to his enduring impact on the cooperative and fertilizer domains worldwide.

In a heartfelt address, Dr. Awasthi expressed profound gratitude: “I sincerely thank the entire IFFCO family, encompassing our subsidiaries, joint ventures, and affiliates, as well as esteemed institutions such as the Fertilizer Association of India, the International Fertiliser Industry Association, and the International Cooperative Alliance, for being integral to my journey.”

In his address he added “Once again, I extend my deepest appreciation to all past and present Board members, RGB members, cooperative members, serving and retired employees of IFFCO along with their families, joint venture partners, technology suppliers, contractors, suppliers, and the farmers of India, indeed, all who have shaped this path, even if I cannot name each one here.”

Dileep Sanghani, Chairman IFFCO echoed the organization’s collective admiration for Dr. Awasthi’s selfless commitment: “Awasthi ji has been profoundly immersed in the affairs of IFFCO and its expanding group companies, often at the expense of personal time with his family. We are delighted that he will now have the opportunity to cherish moments with his loved ones, especially his grandchildren. Nonetheless, we earnestly request his continued guidance for the new management, welcoming his invaluable advice at any time.”

Press release of IFFCO says “As Dr. Awasthi steps into a well-deserved superannuation, IFFCO honours his legacy of innovation, integrity, and service, a beacon that has illuminated the path for generations of farmers and cooperative leaders. His departure is not an end, but a transition, ensuring his wisdom endures in the fabric of IFFCO’s future endeavours.”

IFFCO is ranked World’s No.1 Cooperative (with respect to ratio towards contribution to GDP) according to the World Cooperative Monitor (WCM) Report published by EURCISE and International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), the premier International cooperative body.