Bharat Ratna: Government’s decision to bestow Bharat Ratna to stalwart of agriculture sector leaders like former Prime Chaudhary Charan Singh, and eminent scientist Dr. MS Swaminathan has been hailed by experts of the agriculture and cooperative sector. Experts have also hailed Government decision to provide country’s highest civilian award to former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao.
The announcement of the Bharat Ratna for these esteemed figures serves as a fitting tribute to their unparalleled contributions to the nation, reaffirming their enduring legacy and inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in service to the country.
Bharat Ratna to Singh, Dr Swaminathan way to recognise farmers: RG Agrawal
Commenting on the Government’s decision, RG Agarwal, Chairman Dhanuka Group, said, “Bharat Ratna to both Choudhary Charan Singh and MS Swaminathan is in a way recognition to all the hardworking farmers of the country.”
“Both of them continuously strived for the betterment of farmers and by acknowledging both of them with Bharat Ratna, the Government has fulfilled a long-standing demand of various stakeholders of the agriculture sector,” he further said.
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Mohan Kumar Mishra, Secretary, National Council of Cooperative Training (NCCT) expressed similar views. “Indeed, M S Swaminathan made a significant contribution to Indian agriculture. It was the Swaminathan Committee report, which advocated the establishment of the National Council of Cooperative Training in New Delhi.”
“This autonomous agency plays a crucial role in enhancing skills and abilities among personnel in diverse cooperative sectors, aiming for excellence in cooperative management and leadership. This is indeed a joyous moment for all of us at NCCT and the cooperation sector at large,” he said.
Binod Anand, member, MSP Committee also hailed the Government decision and said, “We are taking ahead the initiatives of Late Dr. MS Swaminathan especially to change the crop pattern keeping in mind the changing needs of the country. Hope we will take his dream further to make the value chain democratic Farmer Centric.”
“With the newly created World Cooperation Economic Forum, a global thinktank will work hard to integrate the Co-operators, Social scientists, Cooperative economists, Public Affairs professionals, and Policymakers to not only make the Global value chain participatory but also make the supply chain of Indian farmers centric by bringing Structural changes in Cooperative and Agri- Economic framework “.
It is pertinent to mention here that Chaudhary Charan Singh was a true Champion of Farmers’ Rights. His tenure as Prime Minister spanned a brief yet impactful period from July 28, 1979, to January 14, 1980, is fondly remembered as a towering figure in Indian politics.
A staunch advocate for the rights of farmers and workers, his unwavering commitment to social justice and agrarian reforms earned him widespread admiration. His legacy as a champion of the downtrodden continues to inspire generations.
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Dr. Swaminathan’s contribution to India’s agriculture is well-known. Architect of India’s Green Revolution, Dr. Swaminathan is described as the ‘Father of Green Revolution’ in India. His pioneering research in agricultural science revolutionized farming practices, catapulting India into self-sufficiency in food production.
His groundbreaking work as a plant geneticist not only addressed the pressing issue of food insecurity but also empowered countless small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods through enhanced productivity. Dr. Swaminathan’s enduring legacy remains a beacon of hope for sustainable agriculture worldwide.
Last but not the least, Rao was a visionary leader and astute statesman. During his tenure as Prime Minister a profound transformation in India’s economic and political landscape unfolded. His bold reforms, liberalized the Indian economy and paved the way for its integration into the global marketplace.
Rao’s leadership during tumultuous times earned him accolades both domestically and internationally, cementing his status as one of India’s most influential leaders.
Needless to say, all three of them have been ratnas of Bharat.