India is set to release a special ₹100 commemorative coin in 2025 to celebrate the birth centenary of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, widely known as the Father of India’s Green Revolution. This coin pays tribute to his remarkable contributions to transforming Indian agriculture and ensuring food security for millions.
Who Was M.S. Swaminathan?
Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, born in 1925, was an Indian geneticist and agricultural scientist whose work revolutionized farming in India. In the 1960s, India faced severe food shortages and was heavily reliant on imports to feed its growing population. Swaminathan played a key role in introducing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice that greatly boosted agricultural production.
Working closely with Norman Borlaug, the Nobel laureate who developed improved wheat seeds in Mexico, Swaminathan helped adapt these seeds for Indian conditions. He then convinced farmers, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana, to adopt these new seeds along with better irrigation and farming practices. As a result, wheat production surged, turning India from a food-deficient country into a self-sufficient one by the early 1970s.
Beyond the Green Revolution, Swaminathan advocated for sustainable farming and founded the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation to promote environmentally friendly agriculture and empower small farmers. He is also remembered for coining the concept of the “Evergreen Revolution,” which aims for high productivity without harming the environment.
Why Is He Being Honored with a ₹100 Coin?
Dr. Swaminathan’s tireless efforts helped save millions of Indians from hunger and famine. His vision and leadership during a critical time in India’s history ensured that the country could feed its population despite challenges. The government’s decision to issue a commemorative ₹100 coin is a tribute to his immense contribution to Indian agriculture and food security.
Features of the ₹100 Commemorative Coin
- Made of a special alloy consisting of silver, copper, nickel, and zinc.
- Weighs 35 grams and has a diameter of 44 mm.
- The front side features the Lion Capital of Ashoka and the coin’s denomination.
- The back side displays a portrait of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan along with the years 1925 and 2025, marking his birth centenary.
The coin will be minted by the India Government Mint in Kolkata and will serve as a reminder of the nation’s gratitude toward one of its greatest scientists and visionaries.
Conclusion
Dr. M.S. Swaminathan’s pioneering work transformed Indian agriculture and made the nation self-sufficient in food production. Honoring him with a ₹100 commemorative coin is a fitting tribute to his legacy of innovation, dedication, and service to the country. His life and work continue to inspire generations of farmers, scientists, and policymakers striving towards a food-secure and sustainable India.
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