Padmashree Dr. Vithalrao Vikhe Patil- a legendary in the history of co-operative enterprise in the country, was an humble farmer by birth. He pioneered co-operative movement as a tool for social, educational & economic upliftment of the rural masses. His untiring efforts changed rural scene of Maharashtra and created awareness amongst the people to lead a prospective purposeful life. He was awarded "Padmashree", the distinguished title in appreciation of his life's work with co-operative movement at the hands of the President of India, Late Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1961.He was felicitated with the honorary D.Lit degree by University of Pune in 1978 and Doctor of Science in 1979 by Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri.