Archive · 15 Dec 2025
Foresters Develop Cure for Neem Disease
Scientists in Hyderabad found a way to save neem trees from a disease called dieback.
This disease makes the trees lose their leaves and flowers.
They discovered a fungus called Phomopsis azadirachtae is causing the problem.
The scientists made a special treatment with three sprays that helped the trees grow new leaves.
They are now working with others to spread this treatment and protect more neem trees all over India.
Neem trees are very important for the environment and culture, so this is a big help!
Dieback disease is caused by the fungus Phomopsis azadirachtae, thriving due to heavy monsoons and climate change.
FCRI developed a three-spray treatment (Carbendazim, Thiophanate-methyl, Profenofos) that successfully revived neem trees in 2023 trials.
The initiative is expanding from Hyderabad to statewide trials, with plans for citizen guidelines and national protocols.
Early intervention is crucial for the recovery of neem trees, with treated trees showing new growth while untreated ones decline.
FCRI is collaborating with forest, agriculture, NGOs, and citizens to propagate hardy strains and fortify green cover.
- Who
- Forest College & Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu
- What
- Development of a cure for dieback disease affecting neem trees
- When
- Trials conducted in 2023
- Where
- Hyderabad, Telangana, with plans for statewide trials
- Why
- To combat the devastating dieback disease caused by the fungus Phomopsis azadirachtae, which is thriving due to recent heavy monsoons and climate change
- Disease Name
- Dieback disease
- Causative Agent
- Phomopsis azadirachtae (fungus)
- Treatment
- Three-spray treatment (Carbendazim, Thiophanate-methyl, Profenofos)
- Institute
- Forest College & Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu
- Location
- Hyderabad, Telangana
- Year of Trials
- 2023