Late Padmabhushan Shri Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil

Dr. Eknathrao, also known as Balasaheb Vikhe Patil, was born on 10th April 1932 and passed away on 30th December 2016. He was a prominent leader from Maharashtra and served as a Member of the 14th Lok Sabha, representing the Kopargaon and Ahmednagar (South) constituencies. He was a member of the Indian National Congress (INC) party.

Balasaheb Vikhe Patil was the eldest son of Padmashri Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil, the pioneer of the co-operative movement. He dedicated his life to fulfilling his father’s dreams by providing strong and practical leadership to the society, continuing the legacy of his illustrious family. His focus was on improving the social, educational, and economic conditions of rural people. He strongly believed in the idea of “Think globally and act locally.”

Balasaheb Vikhe Patil was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) eight times. He also served as the Union Minister for Finance and Heavy Industries in the Government of India. In recognition of his exceptional social work, he was honored with the prestigious "Padma Bhushan" award on 31st March 2010.