Dr. S Ayyappan, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and DG, ICAR, released a book, Food Security of India: An Overview. The book is authored by Dr. Suresh C Modgal and published by National Book Trust, India. Dr. Ayyappan, while congratulating the author, emphasized that food is in plenty but writing is a casualty, hence, this is a welcome book on a most topical issue having many concerns of global implications.
He further said, now food is not limited only to cereals and pulses but also includes fruits, vegetables, fishes etc. Hence, ICAR has expended its spectrum of research for rainbow revolution. Food security involves nutrition, health, environment, employment and many other social issues as well.
Anand Sarup, Former Secretary, Education, Government of India and Former Chairman, NBT, presided over the function and shared his experiences in governance, book publication and other issues of concern related to food security of the country. He suggested that books on such important issues should be published regularly to make aware and cater the needs of various stakeholders.
Dr. RB Singh, former president, National Academy of Sciences elaborated various scientific and social dimensions of food security and urged to work for zero hunger programme in the country. He expressed his concern for a large number of hungry people in India despite surplus food production. Dr. Singh appreciated the author for his novel approach in presenting the book in its present form.
Dr. SC Modgal, author of the book and a known agriculture researcher, highlighted the issues raised in the book and also shared his experiences and vision for food security of India.
