In a major organizational development, Kirit Patil, general secretary of the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) unit, has been unanimously appointed secretary general of the Petroleum Employees’ Union (INTUC-affiliated) during a central executive board meeting held recently.
The union represents employees from leading oil and gas companies including HPCL (R), HPCL (Marketing), BPCL (Refinery & Marketing), ONGC, Mahanagar Gas, Lubrizol, Tide Water, Reliance, and Veedol.
Patil’s appointment was celebrated in a grand felicitation ceremony held at Tilak Bhavan, Mumbai on August 5. The honour was bestowed by Harshavardhan Sapkal, president of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, and Mahendra Gharat,labour leader and Congress’ Raigad District president.
Kirit Patil has been with BPCL for 35 years, starting as unit secretary in Uran, later rising to deputy general secretary, and then to general secretary of the unit. His consistent and impactful work has earned him immense respect across the industry.
Known for his forthright nature, dedication, and team spirit, Patil credited his mentor Mahendra Gharat for guiding him throughout his journey.
“Whatever I am today is because of Mahendra Gharat Sir. His mentorship gave me the strength and direction to work across multiple roles and responsibilities,” Patil shared after assuming his new role.