The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), the esteemed scientific think tank dedicated to promoting agricultural research, education, and extension in India, organized its 31st Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) held on June 04, 2024, and commemorated its Foundation Day on June 05, 2024, at C. Subramaniam Auditorium, NASC Complex, New Delhi. The event featured insightful panel discussions and special lectures on crucial topics in the field of agriculture.
Bringing together over 750 elected fellows representing various sectors of agricultural sciences, NAAS showcased the expertise and contributions that have been instrumental in shaping innovative strategies for agricultural advancement in the country.
The first day of the AGM witnessed two panel discussions on June 4, 2024. The first panel discussion was on “Agriculture in Viksit Bharat@2047: Mid Term and Long Term Action Agenda”, which explored strategic initiatives and frameworks for advancing India's agricultural sector over the coming decades. The second panel discussion, titled "A Roadmap for Second Blue Revolution", delved into strategies for revolutionizing India's blue economy, aiming to unlock the vast potential of the country's marine and aquatic resources. Both the panels were chaired by Dr. Himanshu Pathak, President of NAAS, Secretary of DARE, and Director General of ICAR.
In addition to the panel discussions, two special evening lectures were delivered by Dr. Takashi Yamano, Principal Economist, ADB, Dhaka, and Prof. Ashwani Pareek, Executive Director, NABI, Mohali, eminent scientists of international repute.
On June 5, 2024, the AGM was led by Dr. Himanshu Pathak, President of NAAS, along with vice presidents, Secretaries, and other officials of the Academy. As a token of recognition for outstanding contributions in the field of agriculture, NAAS felicitated Padma Awarded Scientists, Farmers, Industrialists, and Media Personalities during this session. The Academy released A Memoir: Prof. M.S. Swaminathan as a tribute and also started the Prof. M.S. Swaminathan Foundation Day Lecture.
The Prof. M.S. Swaminathan Foundation Day Lecture was delivered by M. Venkaiah Naidu, Former Vice President of India on June 5, 2024. Highlighting the legacy of Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, the father of the Green Revolution, Naidu praised his pioneering contributions to agricultural science which transformed India from a food-deficit country to a leading agricultural nation. Prof. Swaminathan's work in promoting high-yielding varieties, sustainable farming practices, and modern irrigation techniques significantly increased crop yields, ensuring food security and alleviating poverty. His vision extended beyond the Green Revolution, influencing fisheries, and dairy development, and advocating for the 'Evergreen Revolution' a sustainable approach to agriculture integrating modern technology and traditional wisdom.
He emphasized Prof. Swaminathan's enduring impact on global agriculture, including his work in technology transfer, ecological conservation, and policy advocacy for smallholder farmers. Prof. Swaminathan's initiatives, such as the Plant Variety Protection and Farmer’s Right Act and the National Commission on Farmers Report, provided crucial frameworks for improving farmers' lives and promoting sustainable agricultural development. His contributions have significantly shaped India's agricultural policies, leading to remarkable achievements in food and nutritional security, increased agricultural exports, and overall socio-economic growth. Prof. Swaminathan is celebrated as a visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire advancements in agriculture and environmental stewardship.
Dr. Himanshu Pathak, President of NAAS, presided over the Foundation Day Program. The other officials of the Academy who participated included Dr. K M Bujarbaruah, and Dr. P.K. Joshi Vice Presidents, Dr. W S Lakra, and Dr. Ashok K. Singh Secretaries of NAAS. The past president of the Academy Dr. T Mohapatra, Dr. Panjab Singh, and Prof. R B Singh also graced the occasion.
The 31st Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) organized by NAAS proved to be a remarkable event, fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among agricultural scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders. This gathering of esteemed individuals undoubtedly contributed to the continued progress and development of the agricultural sector in India.
