Hyderabad, March 15: Dr. Venkatesh Devanur, a Hyderabad-based agri-biotech entrepreneur and scientist, has been elected President of the World Neem Organisation (WNO). The announcement was made during the recently concluded 3rd International Neem Summit – 2026 and the 4th Global Neem Trade Fair, organized by the World Neem Organisation in Pune.
The World Neem Organisation (WNO) is an international non-profit body dedicated to promoting the neem tree and its wide-ranging benefits in agriculture, healthcare, environmental protection, and industry. It serves as a global platform for researchers, farmers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers working with neem to exchange knowledge, research findings, and resources.
The organisation aims to promote neem cultivation worldwide, encourage research on its medicinal and agricultural properties, support the production and commercialization of neem-based products, and raise awareness about neem’s role in sustainable agriculture, public health, and environmental conservation.
Dr. Venkatesh Devanur is actively involved in several agricultural organizations. He is a founding member and Secretary of the BioAgri Inputs Producers Association (BIPA). Prior to his election as President of WNO, he served as its Vice President. He is also a Director in a joint venture with Koppert Biological Systems, Netherlands.
A pioneer in India’s bio-pesticide and organic agriculture sector, Dr. Devanur leads companies that develop eco-friendly crop protection and soil health products.
Justice K. K. Tated, Chairman of the Animal Rights Commission, Government of Maharashtra, and Dr. B. N. Vyas, President of WNO, along with researchers, industry representatives, farmers, and neem enthusiasts from India and abroad attended the 3rd International Neem Summit – 2026.
During the summit, a White Paper on the Status of the Neem Industry was released. A documentary highlighting the importance of proper collection and processing of neem seeds and fruits was also launched. The film aims to educate neem seed and fruit suppliers about best practices and the importance of value addition in the neem supply chain.
More than 150 participants from India and overseas attended the summit. Eminent scientists and experts presented research papers on the role of neem in agriculture, human health, cancer research, and other emerging areas, creating opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry.
