Founder Father

Padmashri Dr. Vithalrao Vikhe Patil, a legendary figure in the history of co-operative movement in India, was born into a humble farmer's family. He played a key role in using co-operatives as a tool for the social, educational, and economic upliftment of rural people, especially in Maharashtra. His tireless efforts transformed the rural landscape of Maharashtra, raising awareness among people to live more purposeful and hopeful lives.

In recognition of his work in the co-operative movement, he was awarded the Padmashri, one of India's highest civilian awards, by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, in 1961. He also received honorary degrees: a D.Lit. from Pune University in 1978 and a Doctor of Science from Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, in 1979.

Dr. Vikhe Patil is best known for pioneering the Sugar Co-operative movement. In 1948, he united the sugarcane farmers of 44 villages around Pravaranagar and established Asia’s first co-operative sugar factory, which began operations in 1950. Before this, these farmers were being exploited by moneylenders, feudal lords, and private factory owners, and faced difficulties in selling their sugarcane, as the process of converting it to sugar was economically unviable, with jaggery prices at rock bottom.

In 1964, he founded the Pravara Rural Education Society, which is now known as one of the most innovative rural education systems in India. He believed that educating the rural youth, especially women, was crucial for the nation’s development. He thought that educating a woman meant educating the entire family, and that the success of rural transformation depended on the active involvement of women. To achieve this, he established schools like Pravara Public School and Pravara Kanya Vidya Mandir, including residential schools for girls. Today, Pravara Public School is supported by the Sports Authority of India to develop future national and international sports stars.

Dr. Vikhe Patil faced great challenges in getting girls enrolled in schools. He personally visited homes, convincing parents of the importance of education. To help ease the financial burden on families, he founded the Late Mrs. Gangubai Eknathrao Vikhe Patil Trust. He also started the "Earn and Learn" scheme to support bright but needy students pursuing higher studies. Over time, his vision led to the growth of many institutions in the Pravara region, offering education in various fields like technical, vocational, and medical streams, turning his dream into a reality.