DGE Rtn. Sharad Pai is a distinguished figure in both the industrial and agricultural sectors, exemplifying dedication, innovation, and leadership. Born in Belgaum and raised in Kumta, he completed his primary education at a government school on the outskirts of a temple. Sharad Pai pursued higher education in Belgaum, graduating with a B.Sc. in Chemistry from GSS College. His mother tongue is Konkani, and he is fluent in Kannada.
Rtn. Sharad Pai's professional journey began at Allied Foundry in Udyambag, where he worked for two years before venturing into trading castings. His initial clients included Goa Shipyard Ltd. and the National Institute of Oceanography, marking the beginning of a successful entrepreneurial career. In 1985, he founded a factory specializing in fabrication and gearboxes for valves, later expanding into industrial valve manufacturing for sectors including ethanol, fertilizers, and nuclear applications.
In 1986, Sharad Pai married Mrs. Padmaja, and they have a son, Chetan Pai. Chetan studied at GIT and later earned a master's degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. He now oversees the family business. He is married to Dr. Pooja, and they are blessed with two children.
Sharad Pai's career took a significant leap from 1995 to 2000, expanding into agriculture and silk farming from 2000 to 2014. He developed the "Sharad Pai’s method of vermi composting," recognized by Mumbai Universities, and implemented extensive horticulture projects, including 100 acres on the banks of the Mallaprabha River and integrated farming with 60 buffaloes. His contributions to farming have earned him several accolades, including the Krishi Pandit Award from KLE University and the Progressive Farmer Award from the Central Silk Board. He also holds a doctorate from Bharti Vidyapeeth.
A dedicated Rotarian since 1992, Sharad Pai served as the President of Rotary Belgaum in 2014-15 and as District Grants Subcommittee Chair from 2019-2022. Under his leadership, over 200 grants were completed, and he personally executed three grants worth $250,000 each, including the notable "Happy School" project. This initiative provided gender-based toilet blocks, wash stations, benches, and safe drinking water plants to 40 schools in Belgaum, earning him the Citation for Meritorious Service in 2019-20. Sharad Pai's vision and commitment led to the successful application for global grants from District 3170 and the acquisition of CSR projects worth $600,000. Notably, he secured the largest single CSR grant in the country to convert sewage water into usable water, installing 12 stations across the district to process 20 lakh liters per day. He played a crucial role in the "Annotsav" initiative and has served on the Executive Advisory Committee for the Karnataka Krishi Mission under the Department of Agriculture and the Research Advisory Committee of the Central Silk Board. His advisory role extends to a 100 crore self-empowerment project focused on empowering youth.
Sharad Pai's exemplary career and contributions across diverse fields highlight his unwavering commitment to service, innovation, and leadership. As the District Governor, his vision continues to inspire and drive transformative initiatives that benefit communities and foster sustainable development.
