Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference at ICAR–Pusa, New Delhi, and paid tribute to the legendary agricultural scientist. Recalling Dr. Swaminathan as a visionary who transformed science into a tool for public service, the Prime Minister highlighted his immense contribution to India's food security and sustainable agriculture.
“Dr. Swaminathan led the mission to make India self-reliant in food production. His vision went far beyond the Green Revolution,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to farmers, calling them the foundation of the nation’s progress. “India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers,” he asserted. He also mentioned that key initiatives such as the Soil Health Card Scheme were inspired by Dr. Swaminathan’s vision, providing a new direction to Indian agriculture.
The Prime Minister underlined that Dr. Swaminathan’s focus wasn’t limited to increasing grain yields; he equally emphasized environmental conservation and biodiversity. Concepts like the “Evergreen Revolution” and “Bio-Villages” laid the foundation for self-reliant rural communities.
Highlighting Dr. Swaminathan’s idea of "Bio-Happiness," PM Modi said it is more than just conserving biodiversity. It focuses on empowering livelihoods through the sustainable use of local resources — a holistic approach to rural well-being.
PM Modi noted that long before global attention turned to climate-resilient crops, Dr. Swaminathan had already emphasized the importance of Shri Anna (millets) in tackling climate change and malnutrition. His advocacy for traditional and sustainable crops continues to influence agricultural research today.
“Wherever Dr. Swaminathan is, he must be proud of the heights Indian agriculture has reached,” said the Prime Minister. He shared that India now ranks first globally in milk, pulses, and jute production, and is second in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, vegetables, and fisheries. Last year, the country recorded its highest-ever food grain production.
He further mentioned India’s record-breaking growth in the production of soybean, mustard, and groundnut, and reiterated the government’s continuous efforts to reduce input costs, increase farmers’ incomes, and create new revenue sources for farmers, livestock rearers, and fishers alike.
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