PM Modi Inaugurates M.S. Swaminathan Centenary Conference in Delhi; Announces Global Award for Food Security and Tariff-Free Agricultural Vision
07 August 2025, New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference today at the ICAR PUSA campus in New Delhi, paying homage to the legacy of the “Father of India’s Green Revolution” and unveiling a global roadmap for inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient agriculture.
Addressing a distinguished gathering of scientists, global policymakers, and agricultural innovators, the Prime Minister described Prof. Swaminathan as a visionary whose contribution to food security, environmental sustainability, and rural livelihoods transcends generations.
“Dr. Swaminathan turned science into a tool for public good. He not only led India to food self-sufficiency but also laid the foundation for an Evergreen Revolution rooted in biodiversity, equity, and biohappiness,” the PM said.
A Global Award for Food Security and Peace
In a major announcement, PM Modi launched the M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace, to be jointly conferred by The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF). This international award will recognize scientists from developing nations who contribute to food security, climate justice, and peace-building through research and policy innovation.
The inaugural award was presented to Professor Adenle of Nigeria, recognized for his pioneering work on sustainable agriculture in fragile ecosystems.
Tribute to India’s Agricultural Journey
Highlighting India’s agricultural progress, PM Modi stated that India today ranks 1st in the world in milk, pulses, and jute production, 2nd in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables and 2nd globally in fish production.
India also recorded its highest-ever foodgrain output last year, alongside surging oilseed production, including soybean, mustard, and groundnut.
Swaminathan’s Vision: Biohappiness and Beyond
PM Modi lauded Dr. Swaminathan for his lifelong advocacy of community seed banks, opportunity crops, bio-villages, and crop diversification. His early work on drought- and salt-tolerant crops, including millets and mangrove gene research for climate-resilient rice, was described as “far-sighted and transformative.”
Emphasizing Dr. Swaminathan’s philosophy that “Science is not just discovery, but delivery,” Modi urged stakeholders to adopt a tariff-free, collaborative model for global food security, especially for developing and climate-vulnerable countries.
“The relationship between food and peace is not just philosophical—it is profoundly practical. In a world facing climate stress and nutritional challenges, we must promote bio-fortified, natural, and sustainable farming,” said the PM.
Call to Action: Research, Tech, and Youth
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the urgent need to boost research, technology, and youth engagement in agriculture. He called for the development of affordable soil testing tools and effective nutrient management techniques, along with the widespread adoption of solar-powered micro-irrigation and drip systems.
He stressed the importance of creating real-time advisory systems powered by AI and satellite data to guide farmers on crop yields, pest control, and sowing practices. Supporting agri-tech startups and integrating traditional agricultural knowledge with modern science were also identified as key priorities. The Prime Minister cited the success of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, launched in May–June 2025, which mobilized over 2,200 teams of scientists across 700 districts and directly connected with 1.25 crore farmers.
Empowering Marginalised Groups
PM Modi also emphasized the need to empower women farmers, tribal communities, fisherfolk, and smallholders, echoing Dr. Swaminathan’s legacy of inclusive growth.
“India’s path to becoming a developed nation by 2047 will be achieved through contributions from every section of society. Agriculture is not just about crops, it is about life itself,” he concluded.
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