In a landmark move fostering industry-academia collaboration, the CSIR - Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HAPICO Industries Pvt. Ltd. on 20 March 2025 to develop novel biopesticides.

Harnessing Nature for Sustainable Agriculture The partnership aims to mitigate the harmful effects of chemical pesticides by leveraging India’s rich biodiversity of medicinal and aromatic plants. The focus will be on formulating biopesticides derived from indigenous microbial strains identified by CSIR-IIIM.

Key Stakeholders & Vision

Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to translational and sustainable research, ensuring direct benefits for farmers. Mr. Shabeer Ahmed, MD, HAPICO Industries, highlighted the collaboration as a strategic initiative to expand their product portfolio and align with evolving market demands. Dr Asha Chaubey, Head, FMB Division, emphasized the role of advanced microbial technology in developing eco-friendly agricultural solutions.

Advancing Agro-Technology CSIR-IIIM, with its state-of-the-art fermentation and microbial research infrastructure, is actively engaged in developing: Plant growth-promoting products Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) Enzymes & Biocontrol formulations

This scientific-industrial alliance marks a crucial step towards eco-friendly pest management, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and green innovation.