M. S. Swaminathan is a central figure in the history of
the Green Revolution and of the World Food Prize.
This article recounts his association with Norman E.
Borlaug, his recognition as the first World Food Prize
Laureate in 1987 for his breakthrough achievement in
improving the quantity, quality and availability of
food in India and countries around the world, and his
role as ‘Dean’ of the World Food Prize Laureates.
Swaminathan has been a guiding light in shaping and
participating in the core activities and milestone
events of the World Food Prize, including its annual
Borlaug Dialogue international symposium on cutting
edge themes in agriculture and food production/food
security; Global Youth Institute and Borlaug‐Ruan
International Internship programme for high school
students; and as Chair of the Laureate selection committee.