**Subject:** Economy/Agriculture India's development trajectory has been significantly shaped by the pioneering contributions of two visionaries - **Sir M. Visvesvaraya** in water engineering and **Dr. M.S. Swaminathan**, known as the "**Father of Indian Green Revolution**", who revolutionized agricultural practices and food security. ## Contributions of Sir M. Visvesvaraya - **Innovative Water Management**: - Designed the **Block System of Irrigation** in Deccan Canals to regulate water flow efficiently. - Implemented the **Krishna Raja Sagara Dam** in Mysore, which became a model for integrated water resource management. - **Flood Prevention Systems**: - Developed the **automatic flood gates** patented design that prevented flood damage. - Pioneered flood protection measures for **Hyderabad city** through sophisticated drainage systems. - **Industrial Development**: - Established the **Government Engineering College** in Bangalore (now UVCE). - Promoted industrialization through the establishment of **Mysore State Railway** and **Mysore Iron Works**. ## Dr. M.S. Swaminathan's Contributions - **Green Revolution Pioneer**: - Spearheaded the introduction of **high-yielding wheat varieties** that transformed India from food-deficient to food-surplus nation. - Agricultural productivity increased from **50 million tonnes** in 1950-51 to an impressive **2,070 kg/hectare** by 2014-15. - **Research and Innovation**: - Established the **M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF)** promoting sustainable agriculture. - Developed the concept of **"Evergreen Revolution"** focusing on environmentally sustainable productivity increase. - **Policy Contributions**: - Formulated the **National Policy for Farmers** in 2007. - Advocated for **Women in Agriculture**, recognizing their crucial role in farming. ## Impact on Modern India - **Water Security**: - Sir Visvesvaraya's designs continue to influence modern irrigation projects. - His principles are incorporated in **National Water Policy**. - **Agricultural Transformation**: - Agriculture's contribution to GDP evolved from **53% in 1951** to **16% in 2024**, reflecting economic diversification. - **46% of population** still depends on agriculture, highlighting its continued importance. India's journey from a food-deficient nation to an agricultural powerhouse stands testament to these visionaries' contributions. Their legacy continues through institutions like **ICAR** and **National Water Development Agency**, driving India's progress toward **sustainable development** and **food security**.