How MS Swaminathan and Jaunti Village Transformed India's Agriculture
M.S. Swaminathan, known as the architect of India's Green Revolution, collaborated with Norman Borlaug to introduce high-yielding Mexican wheat seeds. The village of Jaunti became a pivotal site for successful trials, leading to a dramatic increase in wheat production and national food self-sufficiency.
Indian geneticist M.S. Swaminathan played a central role in ushering in the Green Revolution in India by introducing high-yielding Mexican wheat seeds developed by Norman Borlaug. Despite initial skepticism and lack of funding, Swaminathan, with support from Minister C Subramaniam and civil servant B Sivaraman, conducted successful trials in various locations, including the village of Jaunti. Fourteen farmers in Jaunti sowed the new seeds on 70 acres, achieving yields of 4 tonnes per hectare, far surpassing previous levels. This success led to widespread adoption and the establishment of the Jawahar Jaunti Seed Cooperative Society. The resulting surge in wheat production transformed India from a food-deficient nation to a self-sufficient one, with wheat cultivation expanding from 4 hectares in 1964-65 to 1 million hectares by 1968. Swaminathan's efforts, supported by both Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi, were instrumental in ending India's dependence on food imports and ensuring food security for millions.
