Experts from Indian agriculture, horticulture and organisations such as University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, International Society for Noni Sciences, World Noni Research Foundation and Noni Biotech, Chennai, gathered along with others at Noni Search 2013: Eighth National Symposium on ‘Noni for sustainable wellness’, a two-day national symposium at UAS.
Dr Kirti Singh, Chairperson, World Noni Research Foundation said, “Noni, the Indian Mulberry (Morinda citrifolia), a plant of Indian origin, is rich in nutrients and has been found to have anti-cancer, anti-HIV and anti-inflammatory properties. It strengthens the immune system and has anti ageing properties.”
“We have grown Noni in farms in the four southern states as well as Gujarat and Maharashtra. We have funded 25 research projects in medical and agriculture universities. We will also have a World Noni Congress in 2015,” he added.
Dr S B Dandin, V-C of University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, said, “Malnutrition in women and children can be addressed with Noni. It does not need much care and can be grown easily. As of now, we are growing Noni in three places in Bagalkot.”
Dr R R Hanchinal, Chairperson of Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority, Ministry of Agriculture, said, “Noni is the Aspirin of the ancients. CARI in Port Blair has 35 important plant varieties. The tribal communities in Andaman and Nicobar islands have protected these important plants and deserve to get benefits and royalties.”