Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR - Indian Agricultural Research Institute, has been conferred the esteemed Prof. M.S. Swaminathan Award for the year 2024-25 at a distinguished ceremony held in Hyderabad today.
The award was presented by Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, Hon’ble Former Vice President of India, in recognition of Dr. Rao’s exceptional and sustained contributions to climate-resilient farming and natural resource management areas that are increasingly critical for ensuring sustainable agricultural growth and food security in the face of climate change.
Dr. Rao has been widely acknowledged for his pioneering research, policy advocacy, and field-level innovations that have empowered farmers to adapt to changing climatic conditions while optimizing resource use. His work has significantly influenced agricultural practices, promoting resilience, productivity, and environmental sustainability across diverse agro-ecological regions.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Rao said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious award, which I dedicate to the farming community and fellow scientists working tirelessly towards building a resilient and sustainable agricultural future for our nation.”
Instituted in 2004-05 by the Retired ICAR Employees Association (RICAREA) in collaboration with Nuziveedu Seeds Limited (NSL), the Prof. M.S. Swaminathan Award is among the most prestigious recognitions in the field of agricultural sciences. It honours outstanding scientists for their lifetime achievements and their transformative impact on India’s food security and agricultural development.
This recognition further reinforces Dr. Rao’s standing as a leading figure in Indian agriculture and highlights the vital role of scientific innovation in shaping a sustainable and food-secure future.