Agartala, August 20, 2025 — A bronze sculpture of the late Professor M.S. Swaminathan, widely regarded as the Father of the Green Revolution in India, was unveiled on Wednesday at the State Agriculture Research Station in Agartala. The statue was inaugurated by Tripura’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath.
Born on August 7, 1925, Prof. Swaminathan was a pioneering geneticist and agronomist whose pathbreaking research helped India transition from a food-deficient nation to one of self-sufficiency. He was the recipient of numerous national and international awards for his contributions to agriculture and food security.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including West Tripura Zilla Parishad president Bishwajit Shil, local MLA Meena Rani Sarkar, Farmers’ Welfare Secretary Apurba Roy, Director of Agriculture Phani Bhusan Jamatia, and Joint Director of the Agriculture Research Station Uttam Saha.
As part of the event, two successful farmers were felicitated, soil health cards were distributed to 10 farmers, and saplings were watered. A documentary highlighting Prof. Swaminathan’s life and achievements was also screened.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Nath underscored the vital role of technology in agriculture and praised Prof. Swaminathan’s contribution to India’s first Green Revolution. “Through his research, he transformed India from a food-deficient nation into one of self-sufficiency,” Nath said.
He further noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is working towards a “Yellow Revolution,” with the aim of producing 70% of India’s edible oil requirements domestically by 2030.
Nath expressed confidence that the installation of the bust would inspire Tripura’s farmers to become self-reliant and encourage future generations to pursue agricultural research and innovation.