PMFAI-SML Annual Agchem Awards 2026: Indian Agrochemical Industry Honours Mr. Pradip Dave with ‘The Guiding Legend Award’

28 January 2026, Dubai: The Indian agrochemical industry honoured Mr. Pradip Dave, Chairman of AIMCO Pesticides Ltd. and President of the Pesticides Manufacturers & Formulators Association of India (PMFAI), with the prestigious “The Guiding Legend Award” at the PMFAI-SML Annual Agchem Awards 2026.

Instituted in 2018 by PMFAI and sponsored by SML Limited, the PMFAI-SML Annual Agchem Awards recognise exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions that support the sustainable growth of the Indian agrochemical industry and agriculture at large.

The seventh edition of the awards was held on 19 January 2026 at the Le Meridien Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai, UAE, where industry leaders from India and across the globe gathered to celebrate excellence in agri-inputs. On this occasion, Mr. Pradip Dave was conferred with The Guiding Legend Award in recognition of his lifelong contribution to shaping India’s agrochemical ecosystem.

A science graduate from Mumbai University, Mr. Dave began his professional journey in 1965 and has since emerged as one of the most influential figures in the Indian agrochemical sector. As Chairman of AIMCO Pesticides Limited, he has guided the company through more than five decades of sustained excellence in manufacturing and formulation.

Beyond corporate leadership, Mr. Dave has served as President of PMFAI for over 35 years, playing a decisive role in navigating the industry through its formative years and driving its evolution into a globally competitive sector. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening regulatory engagement, encouraging domestic manufacturing, and positioning Indian agrochemicals on the international stage.

Mr. Dave’s influence also extends across key institutional and policy platforms. Since 1991, he has been a member of the governing body of the Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology (IPFT) under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers. He has served as Chairman of CAPMA (Confederation of All India Small & Medium Pesticides Manufacturers Associations) since 2008, reflecting his continued commitment to the MSME sector. Additionally, as a former Vice Chairman of CHEMEXCIL and a Founder Member of the CHEMTECH Foundation, he has played a vital role in promoting international trade and cross-sector collaboration across chemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil & gas, and infrastructure.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ramanathan Seethapathi, President & CEO, Gharda Chemicals International, USA, described Mr. Dave as a principal architect of India’s global agrochemical presence. Reflecting on the industry’s early years, Mr. Seethapathi recalled how multinational corporations once dominated the Indian market and credited Mr. Dave—fondly referred to as “Pradeepbhai”—as the leading voice for small formulators during that challenging phase. He highlighted Mr. Dave’s role in the transition of the association from PFAI to PMFAI and his decades-long advocacy with policymakers to safeguard industry interests. Mr. Seethapathi also shared a personal note, recalling Mr. Dave’s disciplined routine during their morning walks at Juhu Beach, Mumbai, and wished him continued health and leadership.

The award ceremony was preceded by a heartfelt tribute from Mr. Deepak Shah, Chairman, SML Limited, and Chairman, Crop Care Federation of India (CCFI). Mr. Shah described Mr. Dave as a leader of rare integrity and perseverance who consistently bridged the gap between industry and government. Sharing a personal anecdote, Mr. Shah recalled being mentored by Mr. Dave during the 1988 BCPC conference in the UK—an experience that helped shape his early export journey. He referred to Mr. Dave as a teacher, guide, and mentor to the industry.

Mr. Deepak Shah stated that it was his privilege to honour Mr. Pradip Dave with The Guiding Legend Award and invited the audience to acknowledge his legacy with a standing ovation.

The award was formally presented by Mr. Bimal Shah, Managing Director, SML Limited, in the presence of senior industry leaders. A gathering of over 900 national and international delegates rose in a standing ovation, paying tribute to one of the most enduring legends of the Indian agrochemical industry.

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