Launch of the Global Award
Global M S Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace Announced: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Global M S Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace at the M S Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in Delhi. The award aims to recognize exceptional contributions to food security and sustainable agriculture across the developing world.
A centenary memorial stamp was also released to honour the legacy of M S Swaminathan, celebrated as the Father of India’s Green Revolution.
Static GK fact: The Green Revolution in India began in the mid-1960s with the introduction of high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice.
First Recipient and Global Recognition
The inaugural award was presented to Dr Arenare, a Nigerian scientist acknowledged for his groundbreaking work in combating hunger in Nigeria. His innovations in agricultural techniques and hunger-reduction strategies reflect Swaminathan’s vision of merging science with humanitarian goals.
Static GK fact: Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with agriculture employing over 35% of its workforce.
Legacy of M S Swaminathan
M S Swaminathan passed away on 23 September 2023 at the age of 98 and was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024. His leadership during the 1960s and 1970s Green Revolution transformed India from a food-deficient nation to one of self-sufficiency.
He introduced the concept of bio-happiness, linking ecological balance with human well-being. This philosophy extended his influence beyond agriculture into environmental sustainability.
Static GK fact: The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, instituted in 1954.
Call for Climate-Resilient Farming
During the announcement, PM Modi urged scientists to focus on climate-resilient agriculture. This includes developing drought-tolerant seeds, water-efficient technologies, and sustainable farming methods to secure global food systems against climate change.
The award is intended to encourage research and innovation in these critical areas, promoting agricultural resilience across regions vulnerable to climate shocks.
Static GK fact: India ranks among the top three wheat and rice producers globally, making agricultural resilience vital to global food supply chains.
Symbol of Food and Peace
The term food and peace, coined by Swaminathan, reflects the belief that ensuring food security is key to achieving lasting peace. The award will be conferred annually to individuals and organizations making transformative impacts on global hunger eradication.
It is expected to become a prestigious global honour, reinforcing India’s leadership role in promoting sustainable agriculture and humanitarian cooperation.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Global M S Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace Announced:
| Fact | Detail |
| Event | Launch of Global M S Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace |
| Date of Launch | August 8, 2025 |
| Venue | M S Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, Delhi |
| First Awardee | Dr Arenare, Nigerian scientist |
| Purpose of Award | Recognizing contributions to food security and sustainable agriculture |
| Legacy Honoured | M S Swaminathan, Father of India’s Green Revolution |
| Additional Tribute | Release of centenary memorial stamp |
| M S Swaminathan Death | September 23, 2023 |
| Posthumous Award | Bharat Ratna 2024 |
| Key Focus | Climate-resilient farming and global hunger eradication |
