Chennai, December 13, 2017: DMK Working President and Treasurer, Mr M K Stalin greeted Prof M S Swaminathan on his receiving the ‘Yerarignar’ award. The title is instituted by Tamil Nadu Scientific Agricultural Society, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University and Tamil Nadu Agriculture University. The Vice President of India, Shri Venkaiah Naidu presented the award at a function in Chennai on December 11, 2017.

In a message posted on his Twitter, Mr Stalin said “Hearty Congrats to Agri-Scientist Thiru@msswaminathan on being conferred the “Yerarignar” award for his unparalleled contribution to Agriculture, which is the backbone of our country. Whenever in office, Dr.Kalaignar relied on his input & ideas to improve the position of TN farmers”.

Responding to the message, Prof Swaminathan wrote, “I am most grateful to you for your kind message of congratulations and good wishes. Your father invited me to set up our institution in Chennai and provided all facilities. During every budget session, he used to ask my views on the items which should be included in the budget. Therefore, a message of congratulations coming from you is a special significance for me.”

The award function had been attended by the Governor of Tamil Nadu Shri Banwarilal Purohit and other dignitaries and recognizes Prof Swaminathan’s contribution to agriculture.