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Prime Minister Modi Pays Tribute to Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, Announces International Award for Food Security

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the M. S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, hailing the legendary agricultural scientist as a visionary who revolutionized India's food security landscape. The Prime Minister announced the institution of the M. S. Swaminathan Award for Food Security and Peace, an international honor to be awarded to scientists from developing nations who make notable contributions to ensuring food security. Dr. Swaminathan's legacy is deeply rooted in the soul of India, and his vision was not just to feed the nation, but to empower its people, safeguard nature, and ensure peace.

Key Takeaways:

  • The M. S. Swaminathan Award for Food Security and Peace will be conferred annually to scientists from developing nations who make notable contributions to ensuring food security.
  • The inaugural award was given to Nigerian scientist Prof. Ademola Adenle, whose work aligns with Dr. Swaminathan's vision of a hunger-free world.
  • The Prime Minister emphasized that Dr. Swaminathan's contribution to the nation was not limited to scientific research or academic theory, but a true son of Maa Bharati who used science as an instrument of service and nation-building.
  • India has achieved significant successes in agriculture, ranking first globally in the production of milk, pulses, and jute, and second in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, vegetables, and fish.
  • The Prime Minister announced several farmer-centric initiatives, including the PM-KISAN scheme, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and the formation of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
  • The Prime Minister urged scientists to integrate the power of Artificial Intelligence in agriculture to improve forecasting, identify diseases in crops and livestock, and enhance productivity.
  • The PM also called for greater encouragement to agri-tech startups, the use of solar-powered micro-irrigation systems, and improved weather forecasting tools to assist farmers in real-time.

Statistics:

  • India produces 22% of the world's milk.
  • India is the largest producer of pulses in the world.
  • India produces 20% of the world's jute.
  • India ranks second globally in the production of rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, vegetables, and fish.
  • Over 4 crore farmers contribute to India's food security efforts.

Sources:

  • New Delhi Times
  • Twitter post by Prime Minister Narendra Modi (https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1953386784538161648/photo/1)

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