| Citation | Beginning with studies of tuber-bearing Solanum species, Swaminathan developed broad interests in the evolution of crop plant species, and especially of Triticum and Nicotiana. He made a major contribution to our knowledge of the role of induced mutations in evolutionary studies as well as in plant breeding pracice. He is internationally well known for his work on indirect effects of radiation and has built up a strong school of radiation genetics. He has had substantial success in inducing and identifying useful mutant in a number of Indian crop plants. The amber grained mutant wheat Sharbati Sonora is now widely cultivated.
As a Director, Swaminathan has successfully maintained the balance between basic and applied work. He recognised the importance of the dwarf wheats and played a leading part in the integrations of fertiliser practice, improved water management, and better husbandry that were essential for the successful introduction of Mexican -bred varieties. His is one of the great single contributions to the "Green Revolution" in India. |