Who is popularly known as the \"father of the Green Revolution\" in modern agriculture?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Dr. N. E. Borlaug

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question checks understanding of agricultural history and food security. The term Green Revolution refers to the dramatic increase in agricultural production achieved through high yielding varieties of seeds, chemical fertilisers, irrigation, and improved farming techniques from the mid twentieth century onwards. The scientist most closely associated with this movement worldwide is Norman Ernest Borlaug, often called the father of the Green Revolution. Recognising his name is important for questions on agriculture and economic development.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The phrase father of the Green Revolution is used.
  • Options include Dr. Robert Nucleus, Dr. Ian Wilmut, Dr. N. E. Borlaug, and Dr. J. C. Bose, plus None of the above.
  • Only one of these names is historically associated with leading the Green Revolution.


Concept / Approach:
Norman E. Borlaug was an American agronomist who developed high yielding, disease resistant wheat varieties and promoted their use in Mexico, India, and other countries. His work for the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center and other organisations helped avert famines and earned him the Nobel Peace Prize. Therefore, Dr. N. E. Borlaug is the correct answer. The other names belong to different fields or are distractors created for the exam.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that the Green Revolution involved new varieties of wheat and rice that significantly boosted yields. Step 2: Remember that Norman Ernest Borlaug is credited with breeding high yielding wheat varieties and promoting them worldwide. Step 3: Recognise that he is often called the father of the Green Revolution in global contexts, while national level titles may also mention scientists like M. S. Swaminathan in India. Step 4: Examine the options and identify Dr. N. E. Borlaug as the one matching Norman Ernest Borlaug. Step 5: Select Dr. N. E. Borlaug as the correct answer.


Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, note that Dr. Ian Wilmut is known for cloning the sheep Dolly, which relates to biotechnology, not the Green Revolution. J. C. Bose is associated with plant physiology and early radio science. Robert Nucleus appears to be a fictional name made to mislead. Standard textbooks and exam guides consistently refer to Norman Borlaug as the father of the Green Revolution, and many mention that he received the Nobel Peace Prize for his contribution to global food security. This cross checking confirms our answer.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Dr. Robert Nucleus: A made up sounding name, not connected with agricultural revolutions. Dr. Ian Wilmut: Known for cloning Dolly the sheep, associated with genetic engineering rather than the Green Revolution. Dr. J. C. Bose: A pioneering Indian scientist in plant physiology and physics, but not the key figure behind the Green Revolution. None of the above: Incorrect because Dr. N. E. Borlaug clearly fits the description.


Common Pitfalls:
Some students might confuse the father of the Green Revolution in the world with the father of the Green Revolution in India, a title often given to M. S. Swaminathan. Without reading the question carefully, they may look for an Indian name. In this question, though, the options and the global phrase point directly to Norman Borlaug. Always pay attention to whether the context is world level or India specific when answering such titles based questions.


Final Answer:
The scientist popularly known as the father of the Green Revolution is Dr. N. E. Borlaug (Norman Ernest Borlaug).

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