Soumya Swaminathan Lauds PM Modi’s Focus on Agricultural Development and Farmer Welfare
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation and former Deputy Director-General at the World Health Organization (WHO), on Thursday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of India’s farmers. She commended his steadfast approach in resisting external pressures while prioritizing agricultural reforms and rural development.
Speaking at an event marking the legacy of her father, the late Dr. M.S. Swaminathan—the architect of India’s Green Revolution—Dr. Swaminathan said that ensuring farmers’ wellbeing is not only a matter of policy, but a moral responsibility for any government. She acknowledged the Prime Minister’s consistent focus on improving the agricultural sector and lauded his resolve to implement long-term solutions despite political and institutional challenges.
“It takes courage and clarity of vision to put the interests of farmers at the forefront and to not give in to any kind of pressures. The Prime Minister has shown both,” Dr. Swaminathan said.
Recognition of Agricultural Reforms
Dr. Swaminathan highlighted several initiatives under the Modi government aimed at improving the lives of farmers, particularly small and marginal landholders who make up the majority of India’s agricultural workforce. She pointed to schemes such as the PM-KISAN Yojana, which provides direct income support to farmers, and the Soil Health Card Scheme, which promotes balanced fertilization for sustainable agriculture.
She also acknowledged the increased focus on irrigation infrastructure, crop insurance through PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and efforts to strengthen the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism as steps in the right direction.
“These programs, if implemented effectively, can have a transformative impact on rural India. But what matters most is the political will to stay the course—and that is what we are seeing,” she added.
A Legacy of Farmer-Centric Policy
The remarks hold special significance coming from the daughter of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, whose contributions laid the foundation for India’s self-sufficiency in food production. Soumya Swaminathan emphasized that her father had always believed in the importance of ensuring dignity and security for farmers—values she sees reflected in Prime Minister Modi’s governance philosophy.
Quoting from her father’s vision, she said, “If agriculture goes wrong, nothing else will have a chance to go right.” She added that the current government’s approach echoes that philosophy, particularly in the way it has centered farmers in its broader development agenda.
Standing Firm Amid Challenges
Dr. Swaminathan’s praise also comes in the context of recent national debates over agricultural policies and protests. She noted that policymaking in agriculture is often fraught with complexity, and that reforms—while necessary—must be approached with both courage and sensitivity.
“Leadership is not about following the easy path but about choosing what is right for the long term, even when it’s not popular,” she remarked. “The Prime Minister’s refusal to bend under pressure shows his dedication to lasting solutions, not quick fixes.”
Collaboration Between Science and Policy
As a leading global public health expert and scientist, Dr. Swaminathan also underscored the importance of science-based policymaking in agriculture. She encouraged greater collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and farmers to ensure that technological advancements reach the grassroots level.
She expressed optimism about the integration of digital technology in agriculture, the promotion of climate-resilient crops, and the government’s investments in agricultural research. “Innovation must go hand in hand with implementation,” she said, calling for more capacity-building programs and farmer education initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Dr. Swaminathan concluded by reiterating the need for inclusive growth in the agricultural sector, especially in light of climate change, water scarcity, and land degradation challenges. She urged stakeholders across the board to continue supporting initiatives that empower farmers economically and socially.
“We must look at farmers not just as beneficiaries, but as partners in the nation’s progress. The leadership we have now gives us a unique opportunity to do just that.”
Her comments have been widely welcomed in agricultural and policy circles as a strong endorsement of the government’s continued efforts to revitalize India’s farming sector.
