This statement highlights the essential role that agriculture plays in supporting the livelihoods of a significant portion of India's population. It emphasizes the need to prioritize domestically produced food as a cornerstone for ensuring national food security. By stating that nearly 700 million people rely on agriculture for their living, it underscores how fundamental farming is to the country’s economic and social stability.
The deeper meaning of this quote suggests more than just an agricultural policy; it implies a broader strategy towards self-sufficiency in food production. This approach not only ensures that domestic farmers have stable markets but also reduces dependency on imported foods, which can be volatile due to global market fluctuations and trade policies. Furthermore, fostering homegrown food security is critical for national sovereignty and resilience against external shocks such as pandemics or geopolitical conflicts. By focusing on local agricultural systems, a country can develop more robust emergency response mechanisms and ensure continuous supply chains even during crises.
M. S. Swaminathan, the author of this quote, is an eminent Indian geneticist, agronomist, and agricultural scientist often referred to as the "Father of Indian Green Revolution." His work has been instrumental in developing high-yielding varieties of wheat that helped India achieve food self-sufficiency during a time when famine seemed imminent. Swaminathan's commitment to sustainable agriculture practices and his advocacy for farmers' rights have made him a leading voice in global agricultural discourse.
