In a major step toward fostering industry-academia collaboration, the CSIR – Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with M/S HAPICO Industries Private Limited to develop novel biopesticides. Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR-IIIM, and Shabeer Ahmed, Managing Director of HAPICO Industries, formalized the agreement in the presence of senior scientists and officials from both organizations.
Sustainable Solutions for Agriculture
The strategic partnership aims to combat the adverse effects of chemical pesticides on human health and the environment. By leveraging the rich biodiversity of medicinal and aromatic plants, CSIR-IIIM and HAPICO Industries seek to create innovative and sustainable biopesticide solutions.
Commitment to Innovation and Farmers’ Welfare
Dr. Zabeer Ahmed reaffirmed CSIR-IIIM’s commitment to developing translational and sustainable biopesticide technologies that directly benefit farmers across India. He expressed confidence in achieving the project’s objectives within the stipulated timeline. With its advanced fermentation and microbial technology infrastructure, CSIR-IIIM has been actively involved in agricultural research, focusing on plant growth-promoting products, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), enzymes, and biocontrol formulations.
Expanding HAPICO’s Product Portfolio
Shabeer Ahmed, Managing Director of HAPICO Industries highlighted, “By leveraging CSIR-IIIM’s scientific expertise, HAPICO aims to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that align with evolving market demands”.
Harnessing Indigenous Microbial Strains
Dr. Asha Chaubey, Head of the FMB Division, elaborated on the technical aspects of the collaboration. She emphasized that the project will focus on formulating a biopesticide. CSIR-IIIM identified a potent indigenous microbial strain and will derive the biopesticide from it.
Organized Efforts for Research Advancement
The RMBD&IST and FMB Divisions jointly organized the agreement signing ceremony. Abdul Rahim, Head of the RMBD&IST Division, supervised the event. It was held under the patronage of the Director, CSIR-IIIM, Jammu. As per the press release, the partnership is a major step toward sustainable agriculture. It advances solutions through science and industry collaboration.
