Father of India’s green revolution, MS Swaminathan, passes away at 98
A staunch advocate of food and nutrition security, it was his path-breaking work that warded off famine during the 1960s
His groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. Beyond hisrevolutionary contributions to agriculture, Dr Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many - PM Modi
MS Swaminathan, renowned agricultural scientist and a lifelong crusader against hunger who bet on sustainable farming passed away here on Thursday.
He was 98 and is survived by three daughters including Dr Soumya Swaminathan, the former chief scientist of the World Health Organisation. Madhura Swaminathan and Nitya Rao are his other two daughters and his wife Mina Swaminathan predeceased him.
A staunch advocate of food and nutrition security, it was his path-breaking work that warded off famine during the 1960s. A Padma Vibushan awardee, he is also the recipient of the first World Food Prize for his leadership in India’s green revolution and numerous other national and international awards including the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay award. The celebrated agriculture icon, who was being treated for age-related illness for quite some time passed away today at 11.15 AM at his residence here.
Condolences poured in with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing Swaminathan’s yeoman service to the nation. Murmu said Swaminathan left behind a rich legacy which would serve as a “guiding light to steer the world towards a safer and hunger-free future for humanity”.
Modi said his groundbreaking work transformed lives of millions, ensured India’s food security. Indian Agricultural Research Institute Director AK Singh said an era of agricultural research, education and extension marked by disruptive innovations has come to an end with the death of Swaminathan. Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister M K Stalin, leaders of farmers’ bodies including P R Pandian condoled Swaminathan’s death.
The Congress party described him as the key scientific architect of the Green Revolution and hailed his contribution to the agriculture sector.
Modi said on X: “Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nation’s history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation.” Beyond his revolutionary contributions to agriculture, Dr Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many. His unwavering commitment to research and mentorship has left an indelible mark on countless scientists and innovators. “I will always cherish my conversations with Dr Swaminathan. His passion to see India progress was exemplary. His life and work will inspire generations to come. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” he said.
Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda expressed grief over the demise of Swaminathan and said he was greatly benefited from his advice on many occasions. Singh said: “In passing away of Prof. Swaminathan, ends an era of agricultural research, education and extension that was full of disruptive innovation. If God appears to poor and hungry in form of bread as said by Mahatma Gandhi, that God is Dr. Swaminathan who should be worshipped by every citizen while taking daily meals.”
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said Swaminthan was the key architect of India’s Green Revolution. Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Swaminathan’s steadfast commitment to revolutionising India’s agriculture turned it into a food surplus country. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said Swaminathan made India self-sufficient in rice and wheat by the mid-70s.
