MS Swaminathan, father of India Green Revolution, dies (GS Paper 3, Economy)
Why in news?
- M.S. Swaminathan, the renowned Indian agricultural scientist and the driving force behind India's Green Revolution, passed away recently.
- Known as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme, his groundbreaking work in the 1960s and 1970s revolutionised Indian agriculture, helping the country to stave off widespread famine and achieve self-sufficiency in food production.
- His pioneering efforts involved the development and introduction of high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice, which significantly increased food grain production across India.
Green Revolution:
- Revered as the "Father of India's Green Revolution," his visionary approach was instrumental in pioneering the Green Revolution in India at a time when the country was still grappling with poverty and lack of social security.
- Recognising the need for a holistic approach, he worked tirelessly to develop wheat and rice varieties that were not only high-yielding but also disease-resistant and well-suited to Indian soil and climate conditions.
Recognitions:
- In recognition of his monumental contributions, Swaminathan was awarded the first World Food Prize in 1987.
- He used the prize money to establish the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai, further cementing his commitment to sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices.
- His other notable accolades include the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971 and the Albert Einstein World Science Award in 1986.
- He was named one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century by Time magazine, reflecting his far-reaching impact.
Malayalam survival drama 2018 is India official Oscar entry
(GS Paper 1, Culture)
Why in news?
- ‘Malayalam survival drama 2018: Everyone is a Hero’ has been chosen as India’s official entry to the best foreign language film category at the 96th Academy Awards.
Details:
- It became the fourth film from the language to be chosen for the honour.
- Before this, Guru (1997), directed by Rajiv Anchal and starring Mohanlal; Adaminte Makan Abu (2011), directed by Salim Ahamed; and Jallikattu (2019), filmed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, were chosen as the country’s official entry for the Oscars, but none of these films got nominated.
About Malayalam survival drama 2018:
- Directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, 2018 is based on the unprecedented rain and flood that hit Kerala in 2018.
- With an ensemble cast including Tovino Thomas, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Aparna Balamurali, Kalaiyarasan, Kunchacko Boban, Lal, Narein, Tanvi Ram and others, the film became a moving reminder of the days when everyone in Kerala, irrespective of their religion, caste or political inclinations, came together to help people in distress.
