Our Team

An eminent Indian independence activist, Gandhian thinker, author and former Acting Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court.

At just 14 years old, he participated in the 1942 Quit India Movement. He went on to a distinguished legal career, serving as a Judge of the Bombay High Court from 1972 and later as Acting Chief Justice until his retirement in 1989. On the bench, he delivered landmark judgments championing the rights of women, tribal communities, prison inmates, and marginalised groups.

A staunch advocate for rural development, the dignity of labour, and the promotion of Khadi, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2003 for his exceptional contributions to law and society. He also served as the first Chairman of the ASPEE L.M. Patel Farmer of the Year Award Committee.

Prof. Mankombu Sambasivan (M. S.) Swaminathan (1925–2023), widely revered as the Father of India's Green Revolution, was one of the world's foremost agricultural scientists. His pioneering work in plant genetics and crop improvement transformed India from a food-deficit nation into one that achieved food self-sufficiency. A visionary advocate of sustainable agriculture, he introduced the concept of the Evergreen Revolution, emphasising increased productivity while conserving natural resources.

Throughout his illustrious career, he held several prestigious national and international positions and received numerous honours, including the World Food Prize, Padma Vibhushan, and the Bharat Ratna (posthumously). As a distinguished member of the Board of the ASPEE Agricultural Research & Development Foundation, Prof. Swaminathan provided invaluable guidance and inspiration, reinforcing the Foundation's mission of advancing agricultural research and rural development.

We were very fortunate to have him as Chairman of our Governing Council

Dr. S.B. Kadrekar Ph.D. in Soil Science (1975) was Vice Chancellor at Dr. B.S. Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Maharashtra for 6 years. Worked on various committee appointed by the Government. He is the Founder member and Patron, Indian Society of Coastal Agricultural Research, Canning Town, West Bengal.

Founder member and President of Indian Society of Environmental Science and Technology and President, Sandipani Gurukul (Institution for Destitute Children). He was Executive Chairman and now President of Bharat Shikshan Mandal, Ratnagiri. Aspee Foundation is fortunate to have his service as Chairman of Advisory Board.

The Chairman of the National Dairy Development Board, the organization that led the country to becoming the largest milk producer in the world. She is also the Chairman of the Foundation for Ecological Security which works on strengthening the processes of ecological restoration.

In addition to being on the Boards of several national and international organisations, Dr. Patel is also a Board Member of this unique programme - South Asia Pro-Poor Livestock Policy Programme (SA PPLPP), a joint initiative of NDDB and FAO.

In addition to being on the Boards of several national and international organisations, Dr. Patel is also a Board Member of this unique programme - South Asia Pro-Poor Livestock Policy Programme (SA PPLPP), a joint initiative of NDDB and FAO.

Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singh is the Deputy Director General (Horticultural Sciences) at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi. A distinguished horticultural scientist, he completed his Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Florida, USA (2008–09) and previously served as Director of the ICAR–Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru.

An eminent expert in Fruit Science, Dr. Singh has made significant contributions to mango and grape breeding, biotechnology, genomics, and marker-assisted selection, strengthening horticultural research and education in India. His achievements have earned him several prestigious honours, including the ICAR Bharat Ratna Dr. C. Subramaniam Best Teacher Award, ICAR Hari Om Ashram Trust Award, and the HSI Shri G. L. Chadha Memorial Gold Medal.

Dr. Singh is an elected Fellow of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) and has served as Editor-in-Chief of the Indian Journal of Horticulture. He currently serves as Chairman of the Governing Council of the ASPEE L. M. Patel Farmer of the Year Award Committee, guiding the recognition of excellence and innovation in Indian agriculture.

Dr. Tapas Bhattacharyya earned his Ph.D. from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi. He is the former Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth (DBSKKV), Dapoli, and has served as Principal Scientist & Head at ICAR–National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP), Nagpur, as well as Visiting Scientist at ICRISAT, Hyderabad.

A distinguished expert in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Dr. Bhattacharyya has made pioneering contributions to soil carbon sequestration, soil modelling, and the rehabilitation of chemically degraded soils, helping address the challenges of climate change and sustainable agriculture.

With more than three decades of experience in research, education, and institutional leadership, he has authored several acclaimed books, including Soil Studies: Now & Beyond and Soil Carbon: Its Reserves and Modelling. He is a recipient of the prestigious Vasantrao Naik Krishi Puraskar (2017) and the ICAR Award for Interdisciplinary Team Research, and continues to mentor young scientists while advancing sustainable agricultural research in India.

Dr. Raghunath Dumbre did his Ph.D in Agricultural Entomology from The Pennsylvania State University, USA and retired as Director of Research at Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth (DBSKKV), Dapoli, Maharashtra. Throughout his illustrious career, he served in different positions right from Agricultural Officer, Dean, Registrar, Director of Extension Education to Director of Research. He has made significant contributions to agricultural research, technology dissemination and the development of farming systems suited to the Konkan region.

His leadership under ICAR Adhoc Schemes has strengthened many research programmes aimed at enhancing crop productivity, sustainability, and farmers' livelihoods. Widely respected for his scientific vision and commitment to agricultural development, Dr. Dumbre has inspired researchers, students, and farming communities through his dedicated service to the agricultural sector in general and Entomology in particular.

Dr. Davabhai J. Patel is an eminent academician and agricultural educationist who retired as Principal & Dean of B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University (AAU), Anand, Gujarat. During his distinguished career, he played a pivotal role right from Senior Research Assistant upto Principal & Dean. His vast experiences of 30 years in Plant Pathology/Nematology has strengthened agricultural education, research and student development. Known for his expertise knowledge in Nematodes he has a scholarly approach and administrative leadership and has guided many students in their studies leading to Masters & Doctorate degree.

He has so far published 246 research articles in International and National journal and contributed for 38 books and 13 book chapters. He also presented a total of 161 papers in national and international symposium. Dr. Patel contributed significantly to nurturing future generations of agricultural professionals and promoting scientific agriculture in Gujarat. His dedication to academic excellence and farmer-oriented agricultural advancement has earned him widespread respect in the agricultural community. He is a winner of 12 prestigious awards in field of Plant Pathology/Nematology.

Dr. Parag Haldankar, Ph.D. (Agri) in, Horticulture, served as Director of Extension Education and Director of Research at Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli (Maharashtra). He has 35 years of extensive experience in Teaching, Research and Extension in the field of Horticulture with respect to Fruit Science, Vegetable Science, Floriculture and Ornamental Gardening and outreach. His areas of specialization are fruits and plantation crops in the Western Ghats. He has contributed significantly by developing more than 40 technologies related to production, propagation, cropping systems, and value addition in tropical horticultural crops.

He is leading scientist in development of various varieties and technologies in mango, cashew-nut, coconut, nutmeg, cinnamon and other horticultural crops. He was leader in the formulation and execution of village development program to conserve native biodiversity. He played key role in the establishment of first Government college of Horticulture in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. He played major role for facilitating farmers’ varieties at PPV&FRA as well as GI for milun and cashew. He has so far published 80 research articles in International and National journal of repute and contributed for 4 books and many book chapters. He also had 60 conference/ technical papers at State, National level and International level and published more than 50 popular articles. He is a winner of several prestigious awards in field of Horticulture and also honored as Fellow of Horticulture Society and National Academy of Biological Sciences.

Our Junior Fellowship holder during 1999 - Did Masters in Horticulture from Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat. Presently working as – Principal & Dean at ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat

Dr. Alka Singh has received many achievements like Visiting Fellow for International Food Policy and Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington DC, USA (2011), has been Team member of the JICA-sponsored Japan-Southwest Asia Programme (2001).

She has published extensively in her field. Received Young Scientist Award 2017-By IJTA and Serial Publications Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. All India Best Publication Award 2017 by the Society for Advancement of Human and Nature, Nauni, Solan, HP.

He is presently serving as Associate Professor in the Department of Farm Machinery and Power at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Maharashtra. An accomplished academician and researcher, he has made significant contributions to the field of Agricultural Engineering through his dedicated teaching, extensive research, and numerous publications in reputed journals. He has successfully guided several M.Tech students and has been actively involved in mentoring young researchers in the field of Farm Machinery and Power.

Dr. Dhande has been closely associated with the ASPEE Foundation as a guide for our M.Tech. students, providing valuable academic guidance and technical expertise in carrying out their research projects. His constant encouragement, scientific approach, and commitment to quality research have greatly benefited postgraduate and doctoral scholars, helping them successfully complete their research leading to M.Tech. and Ph.D. degrees in Agricultural Engineering.

Dr. Bharatkumar N. Patel is a distinguished horticulturist and agricultural scientist who retired as In-charge Principal & Dean of the ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat. During his illustrious career spanning over three decades, he also served as Associate Director of Research, Research Scientist, and Professor in various capacities at Navsari Agricultural University.

A Ph.D. in Horticulture with specialization in Plant Physiology from Gujarat Agricultural University, Dr. Patel has made significant contributions to horticultural research, education, and extension, particularly in the areas of mango, sapota, banana, and floriculture.

He has guided seven Ph.D. and twenty-six M.Sc. students, released two horticultural varieties, and successfully executed several research projects. Dr. Patel has authored books, book chapters, and numerous research papers in national and international journals. He has actively contributed to scientific committees, besides playing a key role in strengthening research infrastructure and promoting modern horticultural technologies for sustainable agricultural development.

Mr. Kiran L. Patel - joined American Spring & Pressing Works Pvt. Ltd. (ASPEE), one of India's pioneering and leading manufacturers of agricultural spraying equipment, after completing his MBA from Berkeley, USA. Over the years, through dedication, leadership, and extensive industry experience, he progressed to the position of Executive Director and currently serves as the Managing Director of the Company.

He is actively involved in the overall management and strategic administration of the organization, with particular emphasis on marketing, finance, and business development. Under his leadership, the Company has strengthened its nationwide presence through a robust network of more than 1,800 distributors and dealers across India.

His strong financial discipline and innovative marketing initiatives have played a significant role in building ASPEE into a financially strong and cash-rich organization. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Mr. Patel has made valuable contributions to agriculture, education, and community service. He has served as a member of the Academic Councils of Navsari Agricultural University and Junagadh Agricultural University, contributing to the advancement of agricultural education. He is also actively associated with Rotary and several educational, charitable, and social organizations, serving as a member, trustee, and mentor, reflecting his deep commitment to nation-building and community development.

Mr. S.R. Srinivasa - son of Late Shri S. V. Rangaswamy, is Director of S. V. Rangaswamy and Company Private Limited, Bengaluru — one of ASPEE’s oldest and most valued distributors, with an association spanning over 73 years built on trust and shared commitment.

Mr. Srinivasa joined the family business at just 18, soon after completing his graduation, and has since led its growth across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, deepening ASPEE’s presence in the region through decades of hands-on management.

Beyond business, he is an active member of several professional and civic bodies, including the Rotary Club of Bangalore, the Indo-German Cultural Society, the Institute of Agricultural Technologists, the Mysore Horticultural Society, the Bangalore Management Association, the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), and the Karnataka Small Scale Industries Association (KASSIA). A respected figure in the agricultural trade, Mr. Srinivasa brings decades of experience, integrity, and dedication — qualities that make him a valued and enduring member of the ASPEE family.

Mr. Jatin S. Patel - holds a Bachelor's degree in Machine Tool Engineering and brings over three decades of rich experience in the design, research & development, and manufacturing of agricultural sprayers and allied farm equipment. He possesses extensive expertise in product design, engineering practices, R&D and advanced CAD/CAM technologies, with hands-on experience in 3D product development, tool-room operations and CNC machining.

Mr. Patel joined the ASPEE Group, founded by his family, and has been instrumental in further strengthening its legacy as one of India's pioneering and leading manufacturers of agricultural spraying equipment.

He currently serves as the Managing Director of Aspee Agro Equipment Pvt. Ltd., where he provides strategic leadership in product innovation, manufacturing excellence and business development. A passionate innovator, Mr. Patel has led the development of several new products and technologies designed to meet the evolving needs of Indian agriculture. He has conducted numerous in-house technical and product training programmes for the Company's sales personnel, service engineers and technicians, enabling them to effectively promote new products and technologies.

Having travelled extensively across India and overseas, he has gained valuable insights into global agricultural practices, emerging technologies, and customer requirements. His key areas of focus include identifying market opportunities, developing and evaluating innovative products, selecting and collaborating with suitable manufacturing partners, conducting product testing and field trials, and adapting products to suit local farming conditions.

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Mr. Patel is actively associated with several educational, charitable, and social institutions, serving as a member and trustee. His commitment to innovation, quality, and community service continues to contribute to the sustained growth and reputation of the ASPEE Group.

Mr. Rajeev K. Patel (B.Com., FMB) joined the ASPEE Group, one of India's pioneering and leading manufacturers of agricultural spraying equipment, as Sales Manager after completing his academic qualifications. Over the past 29 years, he has gained extensive experience across various facets of sales, marketing, and business management, progressing to the position of Sales Director.

He plays a key role in the overall administration of the Company, with primary responsibility for strengthening and expanding ASPEE's nationwide sales network. Through his close association with distributors and dealers across India, he has contributed significantly to enhancing customer relationships, market reach, and sustainable business growth.

Known for his strong customer orientation and practical approach to marketing, Mr. Patel has been actively involved in developing sales strategies, supporting channel partners, and driving business initiatives that have reinforced ASPEE's leadership position in the agricultural equipment industry. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Mr. Patel is actively associated with several educational, charitable, and social institutions, serving as a member and trustee. His commitment to business excellence and community service reflects the core values of the ASPEE Group.