Neem Summit: Objectives, theme, and importance
On February 19 and 20, 2024, a collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Central Agroforestry Research Institute, Jhansi, brought forth the Neem Summit & Global Neem Trade Fair. With the theme of "Neem for Sustainable Agriculture, Health, and Environment," this event highlights India's pivotal journey towards holistic sustainability. Twenty-two companies, both domestic and international, showcased their innovative neem-based products.
Neem-coated urea
Speaking at the World Neem Organisation's (WNO) Neem Summit 2024 in New Delhi, Mr. Himanshu Pathak, the Director General of ICAR, emphasized the crucial significance of the need to propel India's agricultural sector forward. He highlighted the significant progress achieved in the development of neem-based products, particularly noting the groundbreaking initiative of fully coating agricultural urea with neem.
Land rehabilitation
Mr. Pathak underscored that neem coating not only improves soil health but also plays a pivotal role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. With the government's ambitious target of rehabilitating 26 million hectares of degraded land into productive plantations, he emphasized Neem's position as a frontrunner for this initiative. Carbon farming involving neem would help to reclaim a part of these wastelands.
Stakeholder role
Mr. Pathak urged for a comprehensive societal approach to connect farmers with neem cultivation. He said collaborative efforts involving farmers, government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and the private sector could help lead the integration of neem cultivation into mainstream agricultural practices. Through this approach stakeholders can help realize the full potential of neem as a sustainable and profitable crop for farmers.
Zero-net target
The summit highlighted the government's dedication to achieving self-sufficiency in agricultural products by 2047. It also emphasized the pivotal role of neem in realizing the nation's net-zero target, emphasizing the necessity of promoting and developing neem cultivation in the contemporary agricultural landscape. Overall, the summit highlighted neem as a viable option for plantation forestry, capable of meeting the raw material needs of various industries.
High demand
The government aims to boost the population of highly beneficial neem trees in the country with one tree for every 10 Indians, to address the growing demand for neem oil. The significant expansion of neem tree coverage can be achieved through initiatives aimed at distributing high-quality seed material and implementing tree campaigns like "Vriksh Andolans."
Multifaceted benefits
Renowned for its potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, neem oil serves as a versatile natural remedy in skincare, hair care, and healthcare. Its ability to combat acne, soothe skin irritations, and alleviate dandruff makes it a popular choice in cosmetic formulations. Additionally, neem oil's insecticidal properties make it an effective organic pesticide for agricultural purposes, safeguarding crops from pests while minimizing environmental impact.
