Remembering Swaminathan, President Murmu said, “He leaves behind a rich legacy of Indian agriculture science, which may serve as a guiding light to steer the world towards a safer and hunger-free future for humanity.” In her post on X, Murmu said, “The demise of Dr MS Swaminathan, internationally renowned agricultural scientist, saddens me no end.A visionary who worked endlessly to achieve food security, he was rightly called the father ofgreen revolution that ensured our country’s self-reliance in food grains.
He pioneered path-breaking research in agriculture science for which he got a range of awards- from Padma Vibhushan to the prestigious World Food Prize.” PM Modi recalled interactions with him, and expressed deep sorrow over the death, saying Swaminathan’s “groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security” for India at a very critical period in the country’s history. “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,” said the Prime Minister in his post on micro-blogging site X. Expressing his deep anguish, home minister Amit Shah in his post on X wrote, “A legendary figure in India’s economic history Swaminathan ji led a journey of transforming our agriculture sector by introducing the nation to the true power of its farmers.”
Expressing his grief, agriculture minister Narendra Singh Tomar said Swaminathan’s contribution to making India self-sufficient in foodgrains production can never be forgotten. AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge halted a public rally in Chhattisgarh for a moment of silence as a tribute to the late pioneer.
Later, he recalled to the audience the close association Swaminathan had with late Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, and with UPA’s PM Manmohan Singh, and that he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha under UPA. “He was the father of the green revolution,” he said.
Rahul Gandhi said Swaminathan’s steadfast commitment to revolutionising India’s agriculture turned it into a food surplus country. Congress spokesman Jairam Ramesh recalled his association with Swaminathan, saying, “He was a great institution builder, an inspiring teacher, a motivational leader, but above all, a man of the greatest humility and sobriety, who allowed his achievements both in India and other parts of Asia to speak for themselves.”