About M S Swaminathan Award:
- It was instituted in 2004 with the objective to recognise the lifetime contributions of eminent persons who have made great impacts and outstanding contributions to agricultural research and development and to the overall food security and sustainability of agriculture, with special reference to India.
- It is named after the doyen of Indian Agriculture, Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, Chairman, M.S Swaminathan Research Foundation, Chennai.
- It is a biennial award constituted by the Retired Indian Council of Agricultural Research Employees Association (RICAREA) and Nuziveedu Seeds Limited (NSL).
- The award carries a Cash prize of Rs.2 lakhs (Rupees Two Lakhs only), a Medal, and a Citation.
- The award is open to all, irrespective of his/her nationality.
Who was M S Swaminathan?
- Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, often referred to as Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, is a renowned Indian agricultural scientist and geneticist.
- Green Revolution in India:
- He is often referred to as the "Father of the Green Revolution in India."
- His research and work in crop breeding, particularly for wheat and rice, led to the development of high-yielding varieties that significantly increased agricultural productivity.
- This Green Revolution helped India overcome food shortages and played a crucial role in the country's agricultural transformation.
- In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was awarded the first World Food Prize, the Ramon Magsaysay Award and many other national and international honours.
