Borlaug's statue to be unveiled in US Capitol

A life-size statue of world renowned agricultural scientist Norman Borlaug would be unveiled at the US Congress building next week, to mark his birth centenary.
A renowned agricultural scientist, born and raised in Cresco, Iowa, Borlaug is often recognized for eradicating famine in Mexico, India and Pakistan during the mid-20th century with his development of a disease-resistant, high-yielding wheat.
He is known as the Father of the Green Revolution and credited with saving more than 1 billion people from starvation in developing countries.
The statue unveiling will be held in Statuary Hall of the US Capitol on March 25, which is also National Agriculture Day and the 100th anniversary of Borlaug's birth, lawmakers from his home State of Iowa announced yesterday.

"Dr Borlaug's efforts to advance biotechnology and agronomy vastly improved the levels of food security in nations around the world. He was an extraordinary man. He inspired future generations of scientists and farmers to innovate and lift those mired in poverty," Senator Chuck Grassley said.
The statue of Borlaug will join others in the collection that honors men and women who are, according to the 1864 law creating the collection, "illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or military services such as each state may deem to be worthy."

Each state was invited to contribute two statues to be housed in National Statuary Hall in the US Capitol. The collection, now totaling 100 statues, is currently located throughout the US Capitol and the Capitol Visitor Center.

"Dr Borlaug's mission to alleviate hunger and human suffering, improve quality of life around the globe, and foster peace will benefit people for generations to come.
"The statue to be unveiled and dedicated this week will serve as a reminder to all who pass by that one person really can make a difference," said Senator Tom Harkin.
Congressman Dave Loebsack said that the world was a better place because of Norman Borlaug's efforts to feed the hungry and promote peace.
"From growing up in a small agricultural town in Iowa boasting a one room schoolhouse to saving one billion lives by fathering the 'Green Revolution,' Norman Borlaug is a true American pioneer," he added.

Borlaug is one of the only five people to have been honored with the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Medal of Honour.