M S Swaminathan, hailed as the father of India’s Green Revolution, passed away Thursday. He was 98. Swaminathan was instrumental in developing high-yielding varieties of paddy that helped ensure India’s low-income farmers produce more yield. His last rites is likely to be held on Sunday.
During his tenure in office, Swaminathan served in various capacities across departments. He was appointed Director of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (1961-72), Director General of ICAR and Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (1972-79), Principal Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture (1979-80), Acting Deputy Chairman and later Member (Science and Agriculture), Planning Commission (1980-82) and Director General, International Rice Research Institute, the Philippines (1982-88).
In 2004, Swaminathan was appointed as chair of the National Commission on Farmers, a commission setup to look into farmer distress amid alarming suicide cases. The commission submitted its report in 2006 and suggested, among its recommendations, that the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) should be at least 50 percent more than the weighted average cost of production.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his condolence note posted on X, said: “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.Beyond his revolutionary contributions to agriculture, Dr. Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many. His unwavering commitment to research and mentorship has left an indelible mark on countless scientists and innovators. I will always cherish my conversations with Dr. Swaminathan. His passion to see India progress was exemplary. His life and work will inspire generations to come. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
“I feel sad to learn the passing away of Dr. #MSSwaminathan. I have greatly benefited from his advise on many occasions and have been in touch with him till recently. My condolences to his family and friends. RIP Sir,” former Prime Minister HD Devegowda said on X.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said: “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the architect of the Indian Green Revolution, Dr. M.S. Swaminathan. A true visionary and pioneer in agriculture and sustainable development. His tireless efforts to ensure food security and improve the lives of our farmers will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Swaminathan was awarded the first World Food Prize in 1987 following which he set up the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) in Taramani, Chennai.
Swaminathan has been conferred with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan. He is also the recipient of the H K Firodia award, the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award and the Indira Gandhi Prize, apart from several international awards including the Ramon Magsaysay Award (1971) and the Albert Einstein World Science Award (1986).
Swaminathan is survived by his three daughters Soumya Swaminathan, Madhura Swaminathan, and Nitya Swaminathan. His wife Mina passed away in 2022.
