New Delhi, February 9 : India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, has been posthumously conferred upon agricultural scientist Dr. MS Swaminathan, recognizing his monumental contributions to food security and modernization of Indian agriculture. Bharat Ratna Swaminathan, often referred to as the “Father of the Green Revolution”, played a pivotal role in transforming India from a food-deficient nation to one of the world’s leading agricultural producers.
It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in… pic.twitter.com/OyxFxPeQjZ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024
Bharat Ratna MS Swaminathan’s journey began with witnessing the devastating Bengal famine of 1943, sparking a passion to ensure India’s self-sufficiency in food production. Despite pursuing medicine initially, his heart lay in agriculture, leading him to study plant breeding and genetics. His research focused on developing high-yielding varieties of rice and wheat, the staple crops of India.
Through dedicated research and collaborations with fellow scientists, including American agronomist Norman Borlaug, Bharat Ratna MS Swaminathan introduced “dwarf” wheat varieties resistant to lodging and capable of high yields with increased fertilizer and water management. This innovation, coupled with improved irrigation facilities and access to fertilizers, formed the core of the Green Revolution in the 1960s and 70s.
The impact was dramatic. Wheat production doubled within a few years, making India self-sufficient and saving millions from starvation. However, Swaminathan also acknowledged the Green Revolution’s limitations, recognizing the potential for environmental degradation and inequitable benefits to farmers. He advocated for sustainable practices and supported policies like minimum support prices for farmers.
Bharat Ratna MS Swaminathan’s contributions extend beyond scientific breakthroughs. He served as the Director-General of the International Rice Research Institute and held other leadership positions, influencing agricultural development globally. He actively championed farmers’ rights and advocated for sustainable food systems.
His numerous awards include the first World Food Prize in 1987 and the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. The Bharat Ratna award stands as a testament to his exceptional contributions that transformed India’s agricultural landscape and ensured food security for its vast population.
