Central Idea

Swati Nayak, a scientist at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC), has been honoured with the Borlaug Field Award by the World Food Prize.
She is renowned for her groundbreaking research in developing climate-resilient and nutrition-rich rice varieties.

Contributions of Dr. Swati Nayak

Extensive Testing	Organized over 10,000 tests, evaluating 500+ seed varieties.
Climate Resilient Varieties	Developed high-yield, biofortified, and nutritionally enhanced rice varieties.
Small Holder Farmers’ Focus	Innovated inbred rice varieties to benefit smallholders.
Collaborative Efforts	Collaborated with national and international organizations.
Addressing Lifestyle Diseases	Advocates for low glycemic index, micronutrient-enriched rice varieties.
Supporting Better Quality	Empowers farmers to produce high-quality seeds for better market positioning.
Biofortified Foodgrains	Promotes affordable bio-fortified rice as a nutritional solution.

Contributions	Developed high-yielding, disease-resistant wheat varieties, “Father of the Green Revolution”
Impact	Saved over a billion people from hunger, significantly increased global wheat production
Awards and Honors	Nobel Peace Prize, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Congressional Gold Medal, Padma Vibhushan, and more
Legacy	Laid the foundation for modern agricultural practices, inspired efforts to address global food security

Endowed by	Rockefeller Foundation
Presented by	World Food Prize Foundation
Purpose	Recognize outstanding contributions in international agriculture and food production by individuals under 40.
Award Amount	$10,000
Inspiration	Honors Dr. Norman Borlaug’s dedication to fighting global hunger and poverty during his early career in Mexico.
Establishment Year	2011