Sailesh C. Mehta Appointed as Chairman of Fertiliser Association of India

Sailesh C. Mehta, the Managing Director of Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd., has been appointed the new Chairman of the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI). With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Mehta succeeds N. Suresh Krishnan, the MD & CEO of Paradeep Phosphates Ltd. Known for his focus on sustainable and efficient fertiliser practices, Mehta is set to play a crucial role in aligning industry goals with national agricultural priorities.

Why in News?

This leadership transition is significant amid India’s growing push for balanced fertiliser usage, sustainable agriculture, and increased collaboration between the government and fertiliser industry. Mehta’s election as FAI Chairman comes at a time when the fertiliser sector is undergoing transformative changes to improve farm productivity, nutrient efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

About Sailesh C. Mehta

• Managing Director, Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd.
• Over 40 years of experience in the fertiliser and chemical industry.
• Former Chairman of FAI’s Western Region for over 5 years.
• Leads Mahadhan AgriTech Ltd, a subsidiary focused on smart agriculture.

Vision and Objectives

• Serve as a bridge between government, industry, and farmers.
• Promote balanced nutrient use and innovative fertiliser solutions.
• Support sustainable agriculture through modern technologies.
• Enhance farm productivity while aligning with national food security goals.

Transition in Leadership

N. Suresh Krishnan, the outgoing Chairman

• MD & CEO of Paradeep Phosphates Ltd (PPL).
• Alumnus of BITS Pilani.
• Served in multiple leadership roles including:
• MD & CEO of Zuari Agro Chemicals
• MD of Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilizers
• Board Member of International Fertilizer Association (IFA) and ZMPPL
• Over 35 years of experience across fertiliser, energy, sugar, and cement sectors.

Significance of the Fertiliser Sector in India

• Vital for agricultural productivity and food security.
• India is one of the largest consumers and importers of fertilisers globally.

Sector moving towards,

• Nutrient-based subsidy reforms
• Green ammonia
• Digital fertiliser tracking
• Bio-fertiliser and nano-urea adoption