Neem Summit & Global Neem Trade Fair Spotlights Neem’s Role in Sustainable Agriculture and Environment

New Delhi: The Neem Summit & Global Neem Trade Fair kicked off in New Delhi on 19-20 February 2024, showcasing the versatile applications of neem in agriculture, health, and the environment. Organized in collaboration with ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute, Jhansi, the event witnessed the participation of 22 companies from India and abroad, unveiling their neem-based products.

The Trade Fair commenced with the opening by Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR, Dr. Himanshu Pathak, who inaugurated the event alongside esteemed Guests of Honour – Dr. P.K. Singh, Agricultural Production Commissioner, and Justice Honorable K.T. Tated, Chairman, Human Rights Commission, Government of Maharashtra.

Nearly 250 participants, including 10 from overseas, gathered for the Neem Summit, focusing on the theme “Neem for Sustainable Agriculture, Health, and Environment.” Dr. B.N. Vyas, President of WNO, welcomed the guests, while Dr. A. Arunachalam introduced the program, and Dr. Rajbir Singh delivered induction remarks on neem.

Distinguished guests underscored the significance of neem in promoting human well-being. The emphasis on neem-coated urea and neem-based health products aligns with the country’s priority, emphasizing the need for a national-level mission to encourage neem cultivation.

The Summit highlighted neem as a crucial plantation forestry option, catering to the raw material requirements of various industries. Additionally, neem trees were advocated for carbon farming, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.

The two-day program includes seven technical sessions addressing various aspects of neem research and development for society and industry. The event witnessed the release of the Souvenir, WNO Calendar, and a Technical Bulletin titled “Neem Field Gene Bank – Provisioning Opportunities for Conservation and Utilization.” Furthermore, a documentary on WNO was launched.

Outstanding Contributions (WNO & SSCE Awards) were presented by Guests of Honour, Dr. PK Singh, Agriculture Production Commissioner, Justice Honorable K.T. Tated, Chairperson, Maharashtra Human Rights Commission, and Chief Guest Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General, ICAR. The Secretary-General, Dr. Nirmala Kothari, extended a Vote of Thanks, concluding the event on a positive note.