Chidambaram Subramaniam, Indian lawyer and politician, Indian Minister of Defence (d. 2000)

Chidambaram Subramaniam (30 January 1910 – 7 November 2000), widely known by his initials CS, was an eminent Indian politician and a dedicated independence activist whose distinguished career profoundly shaped post-colonial India. His journey as a statesman saw him occupy several critical roles within the Union Cabinet, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic stability and defence capabilities.

As a key figure in India’s parliamentary democracy, CS notably served as the Minister of Finance, where his expertise was instrumental in guiding the nation's economic policies during formative years. He also held the portfolio of Minister of Defence, playing a crucial role in safeguarding India's security interests. Demonstrating his versatile administrative acumen, he later served as the Governor of Maharashtra, a significant gubernatorial position.

However, Chidambaram Subramaniam’s most enduring and transformative legacy stems from his visionary leadership as the Minister for Food and Agriculture. During the mid-1960s, India faced a severe and persistent food crisis, marked by widespread scarcity, dependence on substantial food imports (including emergency aid like the U.S. Public Law 480 program), and the constant threat of famine. It was under CS's determined guidance that India embarked on the ambitious and groundbreaking initiative known as the Indian Green Revolution.

The Indian Green Revolution was a strategic agricultural transformation aimed at achieving national self-sufficiency in food production. CS spearheaded the adoption of a pioneering new agricultural strategy that moved away from traditional subsistence farming. This innovative approach was founded on several interconnected pillars:

• The widespread introduction and cultivation of High-Yielding Varieties (HYV) of seeds, particularly dwarf varieties of wheat and rice, which had significantly higher productivity potentials.
• A massive expansion and improvement of irrigation infrastructure to ensure consistent water supply to farmlands, crucial for the success of HYV crops.
• The systematic promotion and subsidized distribution of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to optimize crop growth and protect against pests and diseases.
• The establishment of robust agricultural research, extension services, and price support mechanisms to incentivize farmers and disseminate modern farming techniques.

This monumental undertaking was a collaborative triumph, orchestrated by CS in close partnership with some of the most brilliant minds in agricultural science and administration. His strategic vision brought together Dr. M. S. Swaminathan, the acclaimed geneticist often revered as the "Father of the Indian Green Revolution," whose scientific acumen was pivotal in adapting and popularizing HYV seeds suited for India’s diverse agro-climatic conditions. The global pioneer of the Green Revolution, Nobel Laureate Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, also provided foundational research and crucial insights. Furthermore, B. Sivaraman, who served as the then Union Agriculture Secretary, played an indispensable administrative role in the practical implementation of these far-reaching policies across the country.

The resounding success of the Indian Green Revolution, under Chidambaram Subramaniam's astute stewardship, fundamentally altered India's trajectory. It transformed the nation from one grappling with chronic food shortages and external dependence into an era of food surplus and robust self-sufficiency. This unparalleled achievement not only averted potential widespread famine but also laid a strong foundation for long-term food security, significantly bolstering rural economies and national confidence.

In profound recognition of his unparalleled contributions, particularly his pivotal role in spearheading the Green Revolution and ensuring India's food independence, Chidambaram Subramaniam was posthumously conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1998. This prestigious honor stands as a fitting testament to his enduring legacy and his profound impact on the socio-economic fabric of India.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chidambaram Subramaniam (CS)

Who was Chidambaram Subramaniam (CS)?

Chidambaram Subramaniam, affectionately known as CS, was a prominent Indian politician and independence activist born in 1910. He held significant ministerial portfolios in the Union Cabinet, including Finance and Defence, and later served as the Governor of Maharashtra. He is primarily celebrated for his instrumental role in leading India's Green Revolution.

What was CS's most significant achievement or contribution to India?

CS's most significant and widely recognized contribution was his leadership as the Minister for Food and Agriculture, where he ushered in the Indian Green Revolution during the mid-1960s. This initiative dramatically transformed India from a food-deficient nation reliant on imports into one of self-sufficiency in food production, ensuring national food security.

Who collaborated with Chidambaram Subramaniam on the Indian Green Revolution?

CS collaborated closely with several key figures to implement the Green Revolution. Notable collaborators included Dr. M. S. Swaminathan, often called the "Father of the Indian Green Revolution," Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, the global pioneer of the Green Revolution and a Nobel Laureate, and B. Sivaraman, who was the Union Agriculture Secretary and played a vital administrative role.

Why was Chidambaram Subramaniam awarded the Bharat Ratna?

Chidambaram Subramaniam was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1998. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon him specifically in recognition of his visionary leadership and pivotal role in successfully implementing the Green Revolution, which was crucial for ensuring India's food security and transforming its agricultural landscape.