Dr. Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, widely regarded as the Father of India’s ‘Green Revolution,’ breathed his last in Chennai today at the age of 98. The nation mourns the loss of a visionary scientist and humanitarian whose groundbreaking contributions revolutionized Indian agriculture, ensuring food security for millions.
Born on August 7, 1925, in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, MS Swaminathan dedicated his life to agricultural research and development. His relentless efforts in crop improvement, particularly in wheat and rice, played a pivotal role in transforming India from a food-deficit nation to one of self-sufficiency.
His dedication to the well-being of farmers and the upliftment of the poorest in society has left an indelible mark on the country’s agricultural landscape.
Dr. Swaminathan’s remarkable work earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971 and the Albert Einstein World Science Award in 1986. His legacy extends far beyond the awards, as he remains an inspiration for generations of scientists, policymakers, and farmers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sadness at the news, saying,
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.
– PM Narendra Modi
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist and former Deputy Director-General at the World Health Organization (WHO), and daughter of MS Swaminathan, shared heartfelt sentiments about her father’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and the empowerment of women in agriculture. She stated,
He was not keeping well for the last few days… His end came very peacefully this morning… Till the end, he was committed to the farmers’ welfare and to the upliftment of the poorest in society. On behalf of the family, I would like to thank everyone who has expressed their wishes… I hope that the three of us daughters will continue the legacy that my father and my mother, Mina Swaminathan, have shown us… My father was one of the few people who recognized that women are neglected in agriculture… He had taken a lot of initiatives to promote women’s empowerment… His ideas have led to programs like the Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana, meant to support women farmers. When he was a member of the Sixth Planning Commission, for the first time, there was a chapter on gender and environment included… These are the two contributions of which he was very proud.
– Dr. Soumya Swaminathan
Dr. MS Swaminathan’s passing leaves a void in the world of agriculture and humanitarianism, but his legacy will continue to thrive in the fields and the hearts of the people. His pioneering work remains a beacon of hope for a sustainable and food-secure future for India and beyond.
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