Naidu emphasised the enduring impact on global agriculture created by Prof. MS Swaminathan, including his works in technology transfer, ecological conservation, and policy advocacy for smallholder farmers…
Highlighting the legacy of Bharat Ratna Prof. MS Swaminathan, the father of India’s Green Revolution, former Vice President of India, M. Venkaiah Naidu, praised the legendary scientist’s pioneering contributions to agricultural science which transformed India from a food-deficit country to a leading agricultural nation. “Prof. Swaminathan’s work in promoting high-yielding varieties, sustainable farming practices, and modern irrigation techniques significantly increased crop yields, ensuring food security and alleviating poverty. His vision extended beyond the Green Revolution, influencing fisheries, dairy development, and advocating for the Evergreen Revolution, a sustainable approach to agriculture integrating modern and traditional wisdom,” the former VP said.
The former Vice President was delivering the Prof. MS Swaminathan Foundation Day Lecture during the 31st Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), held in New Delhi today. NAAS is a scientific think tank dedicated to promoting agricultural research, education and extension in India, organised its 31st AGM on the 4th and 5th of June, 2024.
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Addressing the gathering, Naidu emphasised Prof. Swaminathan’s enduring impact on global agriculture, including his work in technology transfer, ecological conservation, and policy advocacy for smallholder farmers. Prof. Swaminathan’s initiatives, such as the Plant Variety Protection and Farmer’s Right Act and the National Commission on Farmers Report, provided crucial frameworks for improving farmers’ lives and promoting sustainable agricultural development. His contributions have significantly shaped India’s agricultural policies, leading to remarkable achievements in food and nutritional security, increased agricultural exports, and overall socio-economic growth. Prof. Swaminathan is celebrated as a visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire advancements in agriculture and environmental stewardship.
Bringing together over 750 elected fellows representing various sectors of agricultural sciences, NAAS, on the first day of the AGM, showcased the expertise and contributions that have been instrumental in shaping innovative strategies for agricultural advancement in the country.
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The first day of the AGM witnessed two-panel discussions on June 4th, 2024. The first panel discussion was on ‘Agriculture in Viksit Bharat@2047: Mid Term and Long Term Action Agenda’, which explored strategic initiatives and frameworks for advancing India’s agricultural sector over the coming decades. The second-panel discussion, titled ‘A Roadmap for Second Blue Revolution’, delved into strategies for revolutionising India’s blue economy, aiming to unlock the vast potential of the country’s marine and aquatic resources. Both the panels were chaired by Dr. Himanshu Pathak, President of NAAS, Secretary of DARE and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
In addition to the panel discussions, two special evening lectures were delivered by Dr. Takashi Yamano, Principal Economist, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Dhaka, and Prof. Ashwani Pareek, Executive Director, National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali, eminent scientists of international repute.
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On June 5th, 2024, the AGM was led by Dr. Himanshu Pathak, President of NAAS, along with vice presidents, secretaries and other officials of the academy. As a token of recognition for outstanding contributions in the field of agriculture, NAAS felicitated Padma-awarded scientists, farmers, industrialists and media personalities during this session. The Academy released A Memoir: Prof. MS Swaminathan as a tribute. And also delivered Prof. MS Swaminathan Foundation Day Lecture.
The event featured insightful panel discussions and special lectures on crucial topics in the field of agriculture. The AGM fostered collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among agricultural scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders.
Dr. Himanshu Pathak, President of NAAS, presided over the Foundation Day programme. The other officials of the Academy who participated include Dr. KM Bujarbaruah and Dr. PR Joshi, Vice Presidents; Dr. WS Lakra, and Dr. Ashok K. Singh, secretaries of NAAS. The past presidents of the Academy Dr. T Mohapatra, Dr. Panjab Singh and Prof. RB Singh were also present at the occasion.
