The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations of India (FADA) unanimously elected Mr. Ashish Harsharaj Kale, Managing Director at Provincial Automobile Co. Ltd., and President of the Vidarbha Automobile Dealers Association, as its new President at the 289th Council meeting held immediately after the 54th annual general meeting of the Federation. Mr. Vinkesh Gulati, Partner – United Automobiles, was elected Vice President.
Mr. Manish Raj Singhania, Managing Partner – Ralas Motors, was chosen as the Honorary Secretary, and Mr. Chittoor Selvakumar Vigneshwar, Deputy Managing Director – Anaamalais Toyota, as the Honorary Treasurer of the Federation for 2018-19.
Mr. Kale succeeds Mr. John K. Paul, Managing Director at Popular Vehicles & Services Pvt. Ltd., who completed his term as the 33rd President of the Federation.
FADA India placed on record its appreciation of the immense contributions made by Mr. Paul over the last two years as its President. Under his aegis, the Federation was made discernible as the most relevant body vis-à-vis the auto retail sector in the eyes of the policy makers, OEMs, dealers and other allied industries.
While handing over the baton to Mr. Kale, Mr. Paul said: “Though a lot of ground remains to be covered, it gives me a sense of fulfilment and pride in what has been achieved so far. Had it not been for the unstinted support from all quarters, this would not have been possible. Our strength is the unity of our pack. Let us keep up this vibrancy in our work, and FADA can surely scale greater heights in the days to come.”
Commenting on his appointment as the new FADA President, Mr. Kale said: “I will first thank John in terms of what we have been able to achieve under his leadership over the last 2 years. Moving ahead, as India zooms past Germany and becomes the 4th largest auto market in the world, there are enough opportunities for us, the dealers, in times to come. With opportunities, we will also witness a lot of challenges due to the changing nature of the business and the changing regulations. Our viability is under severe stress, and the current business model needs to be re-worked with all stakeholders. During these times, we need to be united and stay put. FADA, as the apex body, will work towards building this unity as well as enhancing the capabilities of our dealer community. I am confident that, with my team, we will work towards fulfilling the aspirations of our members and building a brighter identification for all of us in the Auto Retail fraternity.”