Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference at ICAR PUSA, New Delhi, and described the renowned agricultural scientist as a visionary whose legacy will guide India's agricultural policies for generations.
Addressing scientists, policymakers, and global delegates, Prime Minister said Dr. Swaminathan’s pioneering work not only ensured food security for the nation but also laid the foundation for sustainable and inclusive farming practices.
The international conference, themed “Evergreen Revolution: The Pathway to Biohappiness,” aims to carry forward the values and scientific vision of the father of India’s Green Revolution. Scheduled from August 7 to 9, the event focuses on sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and inclusive rural development.
Recalling his long-standing association with Dr. Swaminathan, PM Modi spoke about the scientist’s deep interest in Gujarat’s agricultural reforms, especially his valuable suggestions for the Soil Health Card initiative. He also shared memories of visiting the MSSRF Centre in Tamil Nadu nearly two decades ago, releasing Dr. Swaminathan’s book “The Quest for a World Without Hunger” in 2017, and interacting with him during the 2018 inauguration of the IRRI Regional Centre in Varanasi.
“Dr. Swaminathan believed that science is not just about discovery, but delivery,” said Prime Minister, highlighting the scientist’s focus on field-level transformation. He praised Swaminathan’s early advocacy for millets (Shri Anna), bio-villages, and community seed banks, innovations that now shape India’s agricultural landscape and global sustainability goals.
PM Modi also highlighted India's current agricultural achievements. “India ranks first in the production of milk, pulses, and jute, and second in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, vegetables, and fish,” he noted. He added that the country achieved its highest-ever foodgrain production last year, with oilseeds like soybean, mustard, and groundnut also recording all-time highs.
During the event, M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace was launched by the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). This international award will honour individuals from developing countries who have made outstanding contributions to food security, climate justice, and peace through scientific research or community-based action.
The first recipient, Professor Adenle of Nigeria, was honoured by PM Modi for his exceptional work benefiting vulnerable and marginalised communities.
Reiterating government’s farmer-centric approach, Prime Minister underlined flagship schemes such as PM-Kisan, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana, and PM Kisan Sampada Yojana. He also spoke about the recently approved PM Dhan Dhanya Yojana, which aims to uplift 100 districts where agriculture has lagged behind.
Looking to the future, PM Modi called for a national shift from food security to nutritional security. He advocated for the promotion of bio-fortified and nutrition-rich crops, reduction in chemical usage, and widespread adoption of natural farming. He emphasized the urgent need for climate-resilient agriculture, focusing on drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and flood-adaptive crop varieties, crop rotation, and soil-specific crop planning.
PM Modi stressed expanding solar-powered micro-irrigation, drip systems, and precision agriculture, and called for integrating AI, machine learning, and satellite data into a real-time agricultural decision-support system that could reach every district. He urged continuous expert guidance for agri-tech startups, whose innovations could benefit from experienced mentorship.
PM Modi also applauded the success of the “Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan”, which connected over 1.25 crore farmers with more than 2,200 scientists across 700 districts, with over 60,000 programmes conducted during May–June 2025. He called it a commendable example of taking technology from lab to land.
Concluding his address, PM Modi said that Dr. Swaminathan’s vision, humility, and values continue to inspire India. “He taught us that agriculture is not just about growing crops, it’s about growing life,” Prime Minister said, urging a renewed national focus on empowering small farmers, women, and rural communities.
