MS Swaminathan, Father of India’s Green Revolution, no more
2 min read
Chennai: Famed agriscientist, hailed as “Father of India’s Green Revolution” Dr Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan better known as MS Swaminathan passed away in Chennai on Thursday. He was 98.
A Plant geneticist, Swaminathan is credited for introducing and developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice that heralded a revolution in the country. In fact, the adaptation of chemical-biological technology not just resulted in quantum production of these two crops, a major food source in the country but also paved the way for country’s food security. This meant, his approach effectively helped the country in tackling famine.
“With profound sadness we convey that our Founder – professor M S Swamninathan passed away this morning at 11.15 am at his residence in Chennai. Let’s all pray for the departed soul. May our beloved Professor rest in peace,” MS Swaminathan Research Foundation said in a social media post.
He served as the Director of Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Agricultural Research and Education, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Acting Deputy Chairman and Director General, International Rice Research Institute, the Philippines, among others.
Among his many recommendations as chairman of National Commission on Farmers, Dr Swaminathan had recommended setting a minimum selling price at least 50 per cent higher than weighted average cost of products.
Dr Swaminathan was acclaimed by TIME Magazine as one of the 20 most influential Asians of 20th century. He was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 1971 and the inaugural World Food Prize in 1987. He has also been honoured with Padma Shri (1967), Padma Bhushan (1972) and Padma Vibhushan (1989).
He is survived by three daughters Soumya Swaminathan, Madhura Swaminathan and Nitya Swaminathan.
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