The MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1988. It was founded by Professor M S Swaminathan using the proceeds from the First World Food Prize that he received in 1987.
The main goal of the foundation is to use modern science and technology to improve agricultural and rural development and enhance the lives of communities. MSSRF focuses on helping rural populations with their agricultural, food, and nutrition challenges. They work in partnership with other institutions, both public and private, as well as local communities.
Over the years, MSSRF has made a significant impact on the lives of over 600,000 farm families and more than 100,000 farmers and fisherfolk every day. Their influence extends to 18 countries.
Conservation of biodiversity has always been a key focus area for MSSRF. They conduct research, engage with communities to promote agro-biodiversity conservation, enhance food security, build the capacity of communities, demonstrate models, and advocate for policies. Their approach is based on principles such as local participation, gender equality, empowering vulnerable groups, self-reliance of local communities, social equity, and combining modern and traditional knowledge.
The agro-biodiversity activities of MSSRF include integrating on-farm conservation and cultivation with sustainable consumption, promoting commerce of PGRs (plant genetic resources) for sustainable food security, creating an economic stake in conservation, and protecting farmers’ rights and traditional knowledge related to agro-biodiversity.
The foundation has received support from various donor agencies over the years, including the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and IDRC. They have also received support from organizations like the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), DFID, Bioversity International, and various government ministries in India.
The research interventions conducted by MSSRF in agro-biodiversity conservation and management focus on providing scientific evidence about the value of genetic diversity in crop plants for ecosystem conservation and agro-ecosystem functions. Their work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG15 (Life on Land). They also contribute to India’s efforts to achieve the Aichi Biodiversity Targets 13 and 14, which aim to maintain and safeguard ecosystems and genetic diversity for sustainable development.
