Agartala, August 20, 2025: In a landmark tribute to India’s legendary agricultural scientist, Tripura on Wednesday unveiled its first statue of Dr. M S Swaminathan at the State Agriculture Research Station (SARS) in AD Nagar, Agartala.

The ceremony was led by Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath, who hailed Dr. Swaminathan as the pioneer of India’s food security revolution. “Dr. Swaminathan led the movement to make India self-reliant in food production. His vision went beyond biodiversity and he gifted us the concept of ‘bio-happiness,’ linking ecological balance with human well-being,” Nath said.

Recalling his legacy, Nath noted that the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has bestowed the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 2024 on the scientist, who passed away at 98 last year. “The Prime Minister has also instituted a global award in his memory to honor scientists from developing nations who contribute to food and peace,” he added.

The minister further highlighted the government’s focus on farmers’ welfare, highlighting integrated farming, a model advocated by Swaminathan as the way forward. “Integrated farming maximizes resources, minimizes waste and secures farmers’ livelihoods through crop diversification, aquaculture, livestock, and agroforestry. Our government is committed to supporting this model,” he emphasized.

In a proud announcement for Tripura, Nath informed that the state has received authorization from the Centre to certify paddy seeds for neighboring states Mizoram and Manipur. He also pointed to ongoing research at SARS on rice varieties and horticulture development at Nagicherra.

Reflecting on India’s agricultural transformation, Nath said, “There was a time when our Prime Ministers had to seek food grains from abroad. Today, India under Prime Minister Modi is exporting agricultural produce to the world.”

Badharghat MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, Paschim Tripura Zilla Parishad’s Sabhadhipati Biswajit Shil, Secretary Apurba Roy, corporators, and other dignitaries were present at the unveiling ceremony.