President Droupadi Murmu bestowed the prestigious Bharat Ratna upon the late Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, recognizing his invaluable contributions to India’s agricultural transformation and food security.
Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, revered as the ‘Father of India’s Green Revolution,’ played a pivotal role in making India self-sufficient in food production. His unparalleled understanding of the agricultural value chain led to numerous initiatives aimed at research, education, and the development of new agricultural varieties and methods.
Throughout his life, Dr. Swaminathan dedicated himself to the noble cause of ensuring food and nutrition security for all. His visionary concept of the “evergreen revolution” advocated for sustainable agricultural practices that would sustainably meet the growing demands of a burgeoning population.
Accepting the Bharat Ratna on behalf of her late father, Dr. Nitya Rao expressed gratitude for the recognition of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan’s lifelong dedication to agricultural innovation and rural development.
The conferment of Bharat Ratna upon Dr. M.S. Swaminathan serves as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and profound impact on India’s agricultural landscape. His pioneering efforts continue to inspire generations of agricultural scientists and policymakers in their quest for sustainable and inclusive growth in the agricultural sector.