The Indian agricultural landscape suffered a significant loss with the passing of Monkombu Sambasivan (MS) Swaminathan at the age of 98. Fondly recognized as the ‘Father of the India’s Green Revolution,’ Swaminathan’s contributions were instrumental in shaping the country’s agrarian economy and ensuring food security.
The Life and Career of MS Swaminathan
Born on August 7th, 1925, MS Swaminathan hails from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. His early life was profoundly shaped by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and India’s struggle for independence. Initially, Swaminathan aspired to practice medicine, but the Bengal famine of 1942-43 stirred his passion for agriculture, leading him to pursue agricultural studies and research. His firm belief that improved crop varieties could influence farmers’ lives significantly and combat food scarcity drove his relentless scientific investigations.
During his illustrious career, Swaminathan served as the Director-General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), playing an indispensable role in elevating agricultural research and education in India. His leadership extended internationally as he held prominent positions in various global conservation and agricultural organizations, including serving as the Independent Chairman of the Food and Agricultural Organization Council.
Swaminathan’s Role in the Green Revolution
Swaminathan’s most impactful contribution to Indian agriculture was his role in the Green Revolution. This transformative phase introduced high-yielding wheat and rice varieties, notably the semi-dwarf varieties, in collaboration with Norman Borlaug. This development revolutionized Indian agriculture in the 1960s and 70s, boosting crop productivity and establishing food security for the nation.
Promoting Farmer Welfare
Swaminathan was a steadfast advocate for farmer welfare. He emphasized fair pricing for agricultural produce and sustainable farming practices. As the chairperson of the National Commission of Farmers, he headed the ‘Swaminathan Report’, which examined the reasons behind farm distress. The recommendation that Minimum Support Prices (MSP) should at least be 50% more than average production costs remains a significant demand of farm unions across India.
Establishment of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Right Act 2001
Swaminathan played a monumental role in formulating the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Right Act 2001, further cementing his legacy in the field of agricultural policy making.
Additional Contributions
Apart from his direct contributions to the farming community, Swaminathan will also be remembered for other notable achievements. He contributed to the global recognition of the ‘Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere (Go MMB)’ and Kerala’s Kuttanad known for its unique paddy cultivation below sea-level as globally important agricultural heritage sites. Moreover, he founded the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) in 1988 to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development.
Recognition and Awards
His remarkable contributions garnered him numerous accolades and awards. Notably, he was honored as the first World Food Prize Laureate in 1987 and received prestigious national honors like the Padma Shri (1967), Padma Bhushan (1972), and Padma Vibhushan (1989). His international honors include the Ramon Magsaysay Award (1971) and the Albert Einstein World Science Award (1986).