MS Swaminathan, an eminent agricultural scientist who is widely known as the Father of India’s Green Revolution, died in Chennai at the age of 98 on Thursday.
The celebrated agriculture icon, who was being treated for age-related illness for quite some time passed away at his residence in Chennai.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of Swaminathan and said, “Dr. Swaminathan was a powerhouse of innovation and a nurturing mentor to many.” The Prime Minister lauded his “groundbreaking work” in agriculture that “transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation”.
“I will always cherish my conversations with Dr. Swaminathan. His passion to see India progress was exemplary. His life and work will inspire generations to come. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” PM Modi said.
Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji. At a very critical period in our nation’s history, his groundbreaking work in agriculture transformed the lives of millions and ensured food security for our nation. pic.twitter.com/BjLxHtAjC4
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 28, 2023
Dr MS Swaminathan, alias Mankomb Sambasivan Swaminathan, was a plant geneticist by training. He made a stellar contribution to the agricultural renaissance of India, and is widely regarded as the scientific leader of India’s green revolution movement.
According to a Time magazine review, MS Swaminathan was one of the 20 most influential people to see Asia in the 20th century. MS Swaminathan founded M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) in 1988.
Dr Swaminathan obtained a BSc degree in Zoology from the Maharajas College in Thiruvananthapuram, and also in Agricultural Sciences from the Coimbatore Agricultural College. Subsequently, he received MSc degree in Agricultural Sciences (specializing in genetics and plant breeding) from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in 1949. He later attained PhD degree from Cambridge University, UK in 1952.
