Hyderabadi entrepreneur Dr. Venkatesh Devanur, founder of SOM Phytopharma (India) Ltd. and Agri Life, was elected president of the World Neem Organisation (WNO) on March 16, 2026.
Professional Background
Devanur, previously WNO Vice President since 2015, leads sustainable agri-inputs firm specializing in bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, and bio-stimulants. His joint venture with Netherlands’ Koppert Biological Systems advances eco-friendly farming; he’s also BIPA secretary and CII biotech committee member.
WNO Role and Impact
Succeeding Dr. B.N. Vyas, Devanur heads the Mumbai-based global body promoting neem’s medicinal, agricultural, and environmental uses across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Americas. His election strengthens neem commercialization for sustainable practices amid India’s shortages.
