At the inaugral function, the minister for agriculture and food processing industries, Sharad Pawar highlighted the contributions of Dr Norman E Borlaug in Indian agriculture and said that Dr Borlaug always considered himself to be a teacher, as well as a scientist. He added further,"Today, several thousand men and women agricultural scientists from more than 50 countries are proud to say they were Norman Borlaug's student. We can think of no greater tribute to Dr. Borlaug than to carry on the work to which he dedicated his life, applying agricultural science for humanitarian benefits."

Pawar also thanked CIMMYT for getting the statue of Dr Borlaug installed in the campus of ICAR, New Delhi. A replica of Dr Borlaug's statue was presented to  the minister on the occasion.

Ms Jeanie Laube-Borlaug, chairperson of Borlaug Global Rust Initiative (BGRI) and daughter of Dr Norman Borlaug expressed her happiness on participating in this event and remembered the association of Dr Borlaug with India and Indian farmers. She also said that her father's heart and soul inhabit in Indian agriculture.

Dr R S  Paroda, chairman, TAAS; Dr R B Singh, president, National Academy of Agriculture Sciences and Dr Sanjay Rajaram, a close associate of Dr Borlaug also gave their valuable remarks on the occasion.

Earlier, Dr Thomas A Lumpkin, Director General, CIMMYT (USA) welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the journey of Dr Borlaug.

Foreign delegates and senior officials and scientists from CGIAR institutions, ICAR and other national and international organization of repute were also present on the occasion.

Dr S Ayyappan, secretary, DARE and director general, ICAR proposed vote of thanks.