The Yellow Revolution in India is linked to the major increase in the production of oilseeds. It was an essential movement that helped India become self-sufficient in edible oil production. The credit for leading this revolution goes to Sam Pitroda, who is widely recognized as the Father of Yellow Revolution.
The Yellow Revolution, started in 1986, aimed to boost India’s production of edible oils like mustard and sesame, making the country self-reliant. It focused on nine key oilseeds: groundnut, mustard, soybean, safflower, sesame, sunflower, niger, linseed and castor, promoting sustainable agricultural growth in the oilseed sector.
Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda, widely known as father of Yellow Revolution, was a pioneering Indian telecommunication engineer and and entrepreneur. Born on November 16, 1942, in Titlagarh, Odisha, he belongs to a Gujarati Vishwakarma family. Renowned for his contributions to India’s telecom revolution, he served as an advisor to Indian Prime Ministers Rajiv Gandhi and Dr. Manmohan Singh and also the United Nations.
Birth date: 17th November 1942
Birth place: Titlagarh, Orissa, British India
Sam Pitroda belonged to a Gujarati family deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy. He completed his schooling in Gujarat and pursued a master’s degree in physics and electronics from Maharaj Sayajirao University in Vadodara. His thirst of knowledge took him to United States, where he obtained a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago.
Sam Pitroda’s involvement in the Yellow Revolution was instrumental, driven by his expertise in technology and his dedication to rural development. Pitroda collaborated with agricultural experts, policymakers and farmers, bringing his unique perspective to address challenges in oilseed cultivation. Under his leadership, C-DOT played a vital role in revolutionizing India’s oilseed production. He introduced advanced practices, hybrid varieties and innovative techniques to enhance crop yield and quality, effectively transforming the oilseed sector.
Sam Pitroda’s influence extended to policy advocacy, leading to the establishment of favorable policies for the Yellow Revolution’s success. His dedication was integral to extending digital telecommunications to every corner of India, empowering remote villages with modern technology and enhancing livelihoods. Pitroda’s efforts not only reduced India’s dependence on oilseed imports but also increased food security and self-sufficiency.
Sam Pitroda’s groundbreaking work has earned him numerous accolades:
Sam Pitroda’s indelible contributions to the Yellow Revolution left an enduring mark on Indian agriculture. His visionary leadership, innovative approach and unwavering commitment to rural development have transformed oilseed cultivation, benefiting farmers, the economy and the nation as a whole. As the “Father of Yellow Revolution”, Sam Pitroda’s legacy stands as a proof to the power of technological innovation and collaborative efforts in revolutionizing vital sectors for the betterment of the society.
Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda, fondly known as Sam Pitroda, also known by the name of "Father of Yellow Revolution" for his visionary leadership and dedication to rural development
The Yellow Revolution is related to the cultivation and production of oilseeds in India. This revolution aimed to address the challenges faced by oilseeds farmers, enhance domestic production and reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
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