Should the Focus on Food Security Shift to Nutritional Security?
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Synopsis
As India celebrates the legacy of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, Prime Minister Modi urges scientists to transition from food security to nutritional security. This shift is crucial for improving public health and addressing climate challenges. Discover how this vision can reshape India's agricultural landscape and ensure a healthier future for all.
Key Takeaways
- Shift from food security to nutritional security is essential for improving public health.
- Promotion of bio-fortified crops can enhance nutrition.
- Reduce chemical use in agriculture to foster natural farming.
- Embrace Dr. Swaminathan's vision for sustainable agriculture.
- Food is life and must be respected.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (NationPress) Transitioning from a focus on food security, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the urgent need for scientists to prioritize nutritional security during his address on Thursday. This was part of the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference at ICAR PUSA, commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, a key figure in India’s Green Revolution.
Inspired by Dr. Swaminathan, Modi stated that India's scientists have a vital chance to reshape history. “Building on the achievements of food security, our agricultural scientists must now focus on ensuring nutritional security for everyone,” he asserted.
He highlighted that the previous generation of scientists successfully established food security, and now it's time to pivot towards enhancing nutritional security.
Moreover, PM Modi advocated for the widespread promotion of bio-fortified and nutrition-rich crops to enhance public health.
He urged for a reduction in chemical use in agriculture and a stronger push for natural farming, stressing the need for immediate and proactive measures in this area.
“India in the 21st century is wholeheartedly dedicated to evolving into a developed nation, a vision achievable through the collective effort of every sector and profession,” he highlighted.
Reflecting on Dr. Swaminathan’s vision, Modi mentioned that the renowned scientist championed millets at a time when they were largely disregarded.
“Dr. M. S. Swaminathan believed that the answers to climate change and nutritional challenges lie within the very crops that have been neglected,” Modi noted, while also emphasizing Swaminathan's focus on drought tolerance and salt tolerance in agriculture.
He recalled how Professor Swaminathan had proposed transferring the genetic traits of mangroves into rice, a concept that could enhance crop resilience to climate change.
“Today, with climate adaptation being a global priority, it is clear how visionary Professor Swaminathan’s ideas were,” PM Modi remarked.
Furthermore, Modi underscored the sacredness of food, declaring that food represents life itself and should never be treated with disrespect or neglect.
He warned, “Any food crisis inevitably precipitates a life crisis, and when millions of lives are at risk, global turmoil follows,” while stressing the significance of the M. S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace in the contemporary world.
The Prime Minister announced that this international accolade will be awarded to individuals from developing nations who have significantly advanced food security.
Point of View
Prime Minister Modi's call for a shift from food security to nutritional security aligns with the pressing need for sustainable agricultural practices. This approach not only addresses public health concerns but also emphasizes the importance of adapting to climate change, making it a timely and necessary directive for our nation.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nutritional security?
Nutritional security refers to ensuring that all individuals have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life.
Why is the shift to nutritional security important?
The shift is crucial to improve public health outcomes, combat malnutrition, and adapt to climate change challenges.
What role did Dr. M.S. Swaminathan play in agriculture?
Dr. M.S. Swaminathan is recognized as the father of the Green Revolution in India, significantly contributing to food security and agricultural advancements.
How can bio-fortified crops help?
Bio-fortified crops are enriched with essential nutrients, helping to tackle malnutrition and improve overall public health.
What is natural farming?
Natural farming emphasizes using organic methods and reducing chemical inputs in agriculture, promoting sustainability and environmental health.
