Prof M.S. Swaminathan has been honoured with the Bharat Ratna for his unparalleled contributions to Indian agriculture and farmers’ welfare. A world scientist of rare distinction whose vision it was to rid the world of hunger and poverty and whose work touched the lives of millions at the grassroots in India, he was convinced about how “a combination of scientific skill, political will and farmer’s participation in pulses production could help achieve zero hunger”
Here is the statement from Dr Soumya Swaminathan, chairperson, M S Swaminathan Research Foundation on Prof M.S. Swaminathan being conferred Bharat Ratna posthumously
I would like to convey my happiness and gratitude to the Government of India and the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, for having awarded the Bharat Ratna to my father Prof M.S. Swaminathan posthumously. It is a great honour, and recognition of the work he has done throughout his life to advance science to solve the problem of food and nutrition security in India and globally. He was also an institution builder and a mentor to thousands of young scientists.
Dr Swaminathan’s life embodies selflessness and service to humanity. He believed in using the power of science and technology to solve societal problems. He was also a karma yogi, and the reward he sought was the happiness on the faces of rural and tribal men, women and children. The recognition given to him now, will serve to inspire and motivate the younger generation to believe that through the thoughtful and humane use of science and technology, it is possible to solve the problems of society.
from Webdoux