1973 - Grow More Food | Commemorative Coin

The year 1973 saw the release of the commemorative coin under the development-oriented FAO series, with the inaugural theme ‘Grow More Food.’

The “Grow More Food” campaign was one of independent India’s earliest and most determined national efforts to combat food scarcity and strengthen agricultural production. Emerging in the late 1940s and gaining momentum through the 1950s, the initiative was born from the urgent need to stabilize the nation’s food supply in the aftermath of colonial rule, recurring shortages, and the memory of the devastating Bengal famine of 1943. As India faced rapid population growth and limited agricultural resources, increasing food production became a national priority essential to economic stability and overall development.

The campaign encouraged farmers to improve agricultural practices by adopting better seeds, fertilizers, irrigation methods, and modern tools. It urged the expansion of cultivated land and emphasized the role of scientific research in increasing crop yields. Public outreach became widespread—through newspapers, posters, agricultural fairs, and rural education programs—mobilizing the entire nation toward the goal of food security. The government’s support in developing irrigation facilities, distributing fertilizers, and promoting modern farming techniques further strengthened the movement.

In 1973, India issued a commemorative coin themed “Grow More Food” under the broader FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) program. This marked yet another instance of India aligning its numismatic themes with the FAO’s global initiatives aimed at ending hunger and strengthening agricultural development. The 1973 FAO-themed coin celebrated the country’s long-standing commitment to improving food production and recognized the vital contributions of farmers, scientists, and policymakers. It symbolized not just an agricultural message, but also India’s participation in international collaborative efforts toward sustainable food systems.

Although the original “Grow More Food” campaign faced challenges—such as traditional farming practices, insufficient irrigation, and limited rural infrastructure—it set the foundation for future agricultural reforms. It helped create an environment that later enabled the Green Revolution, which dramatically transformed India’s food production capabilities. By introducing the idea that modern science, community participation, and steady investment could reshape agriculture, the campaign played a pivotal role in shaping India’s path toward food self-sufficiency.

The legacy of “Grow More Food” continues in India’s ongoing efforts to support farmers, adopt sustainable practices, and ensure food availability for a growing population.