WorldFish Center Scientist Wins 2005 World Food Prize: Research effort brings "Blue Revolution" to Poor People

Modadugu V. Gupta, a fisheries scientist from India, won the 2005 World Food Prize. He was cited for “Providing enhanced nutrition to millions of the poor around the globe through his work at The WorldFish Center,” and for “Pioneering breeding of carp and other pond fish adaptable to a variety of different environments in rural areas, from Bangladesh to the Mekong Basin countries, thereby helping millions of small-holder farmers gain access to innovative aquaculture techniques in Southeast Asia and beyond.”

“Fish is food for millions of poor people in developing countries and a vital source of protein,” said Ian Johnson, CGIAR Chairman and World Bank Vice President for Sustainable Development. “Dr. Gupta’s remarkable research achievements demonstrate how science-based solutions can benefit poor people.”

“Winning the World Food Prize is an honor not only to me but to the WorldFish Center," said the winner, with typical modesty, adding “I am thankful to the many people who supported me in the countries where I have worked.”

In a career spanning 15 years, Dr. Gupta’s research efforts led to the development of low-input, low-cost aquaculture technologies that allow poor farmers to integrate fish-growing in their activities, a “Blue Revolution" that is increasing the incomes and nutritional well-being of millions of poor farming families in Asia. Fish harvests have increased three to five-fold in Bangladesh, Laos, and other countries in Southeast Asia.

“We are truly delighted that Dr Gupta’s lifelong dedication and commitment to making a difference in the lives of poor people has been recognized," said Stephen Hall, Director General, WorldFish Center. “This award is a testament to the pivotal role that fisheries and aquaculture can play in improving the lives of poor people."

The announcement was made June 10 in the ornate Benjamin Franklin Room of the U.S. Department of State by Ambassador Kenneth Quinn, President of the World Food Prize Foundation.

The $250,000 will be presented to the winner on October 13, 2005 in Des Moines, Iowa, USA The World Food Prize honors outstanding individuals who have made vital contributions to improving the quality, quantity or availability of food throughout the world. Dr. Gupta is the eleventh CGIAR scientist to have won this coveted prize.

For more information: www.worldfishcenter.org, www.worldfoodprize.org