Celebrating Legacy of Professor M S Swaminathan: The Father of India’s Green Revolution
New Delhi, 14th Feb. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, hosted a special celebration on Tuesday in honor of Professor M S Swaminathan, the renowned agricultural scientist and recipient of the prestigious Bharat Ratna award.The event served as a tribute to Professor Swaminathan’s monumental contributions to agricultural research and his enduring legacy as the pioneer of the Green Revolution in India.Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary of DARE and Director General of ICAR, and President of NAAS, commenced the proceedings by highlighting the remarkable achievements of Professor M S Swaminathan. He shared fond memories of working alongside Professor Swaminathan at CRRI, Cuttack, reminiscing about his profound impact on agricultural research and development.
Dr. A K Singh, Director of ICAR-IARI and Secretary of NAAS, expressed pride in Professor Swaminathan’s receipt of the Bharat Ratna Award on February 9, 2024. He underscored Professor Swaminathan’s lifelong dedication to advancing agricultural research, sustainable development, and food security in India. Dr. Singh emphasized how Professor Swaminathan’s visionary leadership and innovative approaches have transformed the agricultural landscape of the nation and beyond.
The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. T Mohapatra, Chairperson of the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Authority, Dr. R B Singh, Chancellor of Central Agricultural University, Imphal, and Dr. R S Paroda, Founder Chairman of TAAS. Additionally, online participation was marked by the presence of Dr. H S Gupta, Dr. Panjab Singh, Dr. K V Prabhu, and many others.
Professor M.S. Swaminathan, widely hailed as the Father of India’s Green Revolution, revolutionized agricultural productivity during the 1960s-70s, saving millions from starvation. He championed the concept of an “Evergreen Revolution,” advocating for sustainable agricultural practices. His commitment to empowering farmers and leveraging science for the betterment of society led to the establishment of the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation in 1988. Through this foundation, he continued his efforts to develop strategies for economic growth, particularly focusing on empowering rural farmers, including women.
The celebration featured speeches, presentations, and reflections on Professor M S Swaminathan’s illustrious career and enduring legacy. Dignitaries paid homage to his invaluable contributions to agriculture, research, and rural development. Prof. Swaminathan’s leadership positions, including Director of IARI, Director General of ICAR, and Chair of the National Commission on Farmers, were highlighted, underscoring his multifaceted impact on agricultural policy and development in India.
Despite his growing age, Professor Swaminathan remained active in research and advocacy, persisting in his efforts to address rural development, food security, and sustainable agriculture. His daughters, Dr. Nithya, Dr. Madhura, and Dr. Soumya, of MSSRF, Chennai, joined the virtual proceedings, further emphasizing the profound influence and enduring legacy of Professor M S Swaminathan on agricultural development in India and beyond.
The celebration served as a testament to Professor Swaminathan’s unparalleled contributions and enduring legacy, inspiring future generations to continue his mission of transforming agriculture for the betterment of society.
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