ICAR-DFR Inks MoU with Bayer Crop Science Ltd. for Bioefficacy Trials on Roses

18 July 2025, Pune

The ICAR-Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bayer Crop Science Ltd. to undertake collaborative contract research on pesticide bioefficacy in rose cultivation.

The MoU, signed today, formalizes a joint project titled “Evaluating the Toxicity of Spidoxamat 36 g/L + Abamectin 18 g/L OD Formulation Against Thrips and Mites Infesting Roses Under Open Field Conditions.”

The agreement was signed by Dr. K. V. Prasad, Director, ICAR-DFR, and Dr. Prafull Malthankar and Dr. Sangram Waghchaure representing Bayer Crop Science Ltd.

Under the terms of the agreement, ICAR-DFR will conduct a two-year open-field study to assess the effectiveness of the Spidoxamat + Abamectin formulation in controlling key rose pests, particularly thrips and mites. The study will also evaluate the potential impact of the formulation on beneficial natural enemies within the rose agroecosystem.

This collaboration is expected to contribute valuable scientific insights into sustainable pest management strategies for floriculture, with a focus on improving crop health and productivity while preserving ecological balance.

(Source: ICAR-Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune)