The role of Swaminathan in science and public policy
for more than 65 years is unapproachable. His contribution
to strengthen agriculture and improve food security
is tremendous and more than impressive. His
incisive vision on the role of science to serve societal
aims is widely accepted, and leading to evergreen
revolutions in many continents and countries. In this
article that role of Swaminathan will be described and
it will be illustrated how three main guidelines were
used in his thinking, approaches and interventions: (i)
Promoting basic scientific insights and understanding
where physical, (bio)chemical, physiological, ecological
and genetical principles and knowledge are used
and integrated; (ii) Stimulating and introducing inclusive
approaches where various objectives such as environmental
aims, sustainable development, gender,
next to productivity increases are combined and used
to strengthen harmonious developments; (iii) Activating
and adapting institutions, national and international,
and rules and regulations such that farmers are
empowered and protected and that biodiversity is protected
and where possible promoted and strengthened.
All these policy issues were crucial for the functioning
of Swaminathan and his impact on World Food Security,
regional upgrading and local movements and sustainable
development globally. The description and
analysis in this article demonstrate his efforts and activities
which have made the world a better place for all