Norman Ernest Borlaug(1914-~)

Norman Ernest Borlaug, born in March 1914 in an Iowa farm, became a towering figure in green revolution of 1960's. Borlaug, during the last three and half decade collaborated and shared his experiences on problems of wheat improvement with his fellow scientists from Mexico and other countries. He also enchourages and collaborated with scientists from India, Pakistan and other countries in adapting new varieties of wheat. He was a big motivation force fo convincing the scientists and the Government fro introduction of new wheat varieties. He is a goal oriented scientist with pragmatic approach with constant sarch for more effective methods.
After completing his college education, Borlaug studies forestry and pursued his further studies in plant pathology for masters and doctorate degree. He was also actively involved in research on industrial and agricultural bactericides, fungicides and preservatives. Later he as a geneticist and plant pathologist. He was also made responsible for directing the research on wheat in the collaborative programme of Mexican Government and Rockfeller Foundation. his responsibilities included the research in diverse fields of his intrest. In span of two decades he achieved a spectacular sucess in developing a high yeilding, short strawed and disease resistant wheat.
He also worked to use this scientific research for humanitarian purposes. He saw to it that new cerial strains are used extensively for production to feed hungry people of the world. This according to him is a "temporary success in man's war against hunger and deprivation". He considered it a breathing space in which to deal with "populaion monster" and the subsequent environmental and social ills, often resulting in conflicts between humans and natons. Noble peace prize was conferred on him in 1978 for his contribution to food security, environment and reduction of social ills and conflicts. he also received acclaimation from several iniversities and research institutions in the for of fellowship and awards of excellence.
Dr. Borlaug also became the Director of Wheat Improvement Programme which enabled him to achieve hi s another objective if traning young scientists in research and production methodology. This Center has succeeded in providing training to more than 2000 young students from several countries. At present Borlaug is involved in experimentation with triticale, a man made grain developed through cross between wheat and rye.