World Neem Organisation (WNO) president BN Vyas, who is organising the two-day event in collaboration with Jhansi-based ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute, said an Amul-type cooperative model for neem is needed.
India, currently with 18-20 million neem trees, mostly in the South, sees Uttar Pradesh leading with 40%.
A Arunachalam, director of Central Agroforestry Research Institute, highlights neem’s potential for farmers to generate extra income, bearing fruit in 3-5 years and quality seeds in 15.
ICAR’s Director General, Himanshu Pathak, emphasizes neem’s cultural and agricultural significance, as the government focuses on its planting and use.