Delhi, 7 August (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the Government of India prioritizes farmers, fishermen, and livestock rearers while expressing his commitment to safeguarding their rights.
For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it and I am ready for it. India is ready for it, he said.
Addressing the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, he honored Professor Swaminathan's influence on India's agricultural self-reliance and sustainability. Modi acknowledged that Dr. Swaminathan's scientific contributions encouraged modern agricultural practices and shaped current policies.
Dr. Swaminathan, regarded as the father of the Green Revolution, not only enhanced food production but also promoted community empowerment through biodiversity. Modi announced the establishment of the M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace, intended for scientists from developing nations who advance food security. The inaugural award recipient is a Nigerian professor.
The Prime Minister highlighted India's ranking in global agricultural production, noting record outputs for crops like wheat, rice, and mustard, attributing these successes to farmers' dedication and supportive government policies. He discussed initiatives such as the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi and the PM-Dhan-Dhan Yojana, which aim to boost farmers' economic conditions and self-reliance.
PM Modi urged scientists to address both food and nutritional security, advocating for research in natural farming, crop diversification, and climate-resilient crops. He recommended incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning in agriculture. The Prime Minister called for a fusion of traditional agricultural wisdom with modern science to establish a comprehensive agricultural framework, encouraging innovation among young scientists and entrepreneurs to elevate India as a leader in sustainable agricultural production. He celebrated Dr. Swaminathan's Bharat Ratna award, affirming that his principles will influence Indian policies in the future.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
