Date:08/02/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/02/08/stories/2008020859361500.htm

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Vision needed to tackle farm sector challenges: Manmohan

Special Correspondent

Jagjivan Ram’s role in achieving food security lauded

— Photo: R. V. Moorthy

Contribution recalled: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh with agriculture scientist M.S. Swaminathan at a seminar in New Delhi on Thursday.

NEW DELHI: Appreciating the role played by Babu Jagjivan Ram in the nation achieving self-sufficiency in foodgrains production, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said similar leadership was required now to tackle the challenges in the agriculture sector.

Speaking at a seminar on “Agriculture Revolutions, Inclusive Growth and State Policies” to mark the birth centenary celebrations of Babu Jagjivan Ram here on Thursday, Dr. Singh said: “We once again need such vision and leadership of the type provided by him if our agriculture is to meet the requirements of the coming decades. We need to understand the role played by visionary leadership in making a difference to our agricultural sector.”

The Prime Minister expressed happiness over the presence of eminent scientist M.S. Swaminathan at the function and said he would “provide us guidance and support as we chart out a new course for agricultural renovation and revival.”

Recalling Jagjivan Ram’s contribution, Dr. Singh said his political and administrative skills, combined with vision for a social democratic order, made him stand tall as a crusader for equality. Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Meira Kumar recalled Jagjivan Ram’s contribution to the agriculture sector during the 1967 drought when he was heading the Ministry.

“The country cannot produce sufficient foodgrains if farmers are in distress even if they are provided with best inputs,” she said.

Dr. Swaminathan said Jagjivan Ram was committed to inclusive growth.