Dr. B. Vasantharaj David (D.Sc., Ph.D., M.Sc. (Ag.), F.N.A.A.S., F.E.S.I., F.I.A.E., F.P.P.A.I., F.A.Z.R.A., F.G.S.A., F.M.S.F., F.S.B.A., F.N.A.B.S., F.R.E.S.), renowned as the “Architect of Indian Toxicology and Crop Protection,” is a distinguished entomologist with over 65 years of expertise. His contributions to entomology, toxicology, and regulatory sciences have been monumental, shaping agricultural research, industry standards, and global regulatory frameworks.
A Visionary in Entomology and Crop Protection
Born on November 17, 1935, in Insein, Myanmar, Dr. David has left an indelible mark on agricultural science. The University of Madras awarded him a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) for his pioneering taxonomic studies on Aleyrodidae (whiteflies) across India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, leading to the discovery of 250 new species.
His academic journey saw him teaching Agricultural Entomology at the Agricultural College & Research Institute, Coimbatore, before transitioning into industry leadership roles at Tata Fison Industries, Ciba Agrochemical Research Centre, and Coromandel Indag Products. His most notable industrial achievement was the establishment of India’s first integrated pesticide research center at FIPPAT (now IIBAT).
Pioneering Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) in India
Dr. David played a pivotal role in bringing Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) to India. In 1994, he joined Jai Research Foundation (JRF) and was instrumental in securing OECD GLP certification for the institution. Recognizing the urgent need for GLP compliance in India, he led JRF in organizing India’s first International Symposium on GLP in March 1998, in collaboration with the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the Ministry of Agriculture. This landmark event led to the creation of the National GLP Compliance Monitoring Authority (NGCMA), revolutionizing regulatory toxicology in India.
Between 2005 and 2017, Dr. David further expanded his impact globally as a GLP consultant for Rotam Research Laboratory, Kunshan, China. Under his leadership, the facility achieved OECD GLP certification from BfR (Germany) in 2007.
A Stalwart in Toxicology and Regulatory Science
Dr. David’s contributions to toxicology and regulatory sciences are unparalleled. His research, mentorship, and industry leadership have made him a pillar of Indian toxicology. He has:
✅ Mentored 11 Ph.D. and 16 M.Phil. scholars
✅ Published 359 research papers
✅ Authored multiple books, including the widely referenced General and Applied Entomology
✅ Represented India at global conferences across 20+ countries
His Distinguished Scientist Lifetime Achievement Award in Toxicology by the Society of Toxicology, India (STOX) stands as a testament to his invaluable contributions to the field.
Awards & Recognitions
Dr. David’s groundbreaking work has earned him numerous accolades, including:
🏆 Dr. K. C. Mehta Memorial Award (Plant Protection, NAAS)
🏆 Distinguished Scientist Lifetime Achievement Award (Toxicology, STOX India)
🏆 Outstanding Plant Protection Scientist Award (IPPC – 2019)
🏆 Bharat Excellence Award (2019)
🏆 Indo Asian Emeritus Scientist Award (2021)
🏆 Lifetime Achievement Awards from AZRA, Entomology Hyderabad, and the Entomological Society of India (2024)
A Legacy That Continues
Currently serving as the President of the Applied Zoologists Research Association (AZRA) (1994–2025), Dr. David remains actively engaged in shaping the future of entomology and toxicology. His unparalleled contributions to crop protection, pesticide research, GLP implementation, and regulatory toxicology continue to inspire scientists, researchers, and industry professionals worldwide.
Dr. B. Vasantharaj David’s legacy is not just one of scientific discovery but of institution-building, mentorship, and global impact—making him a true architect of Indian toxicology and a pioneer in agricultural sciences.