Dr M #Karunanidhi was a scientists’ scientist. Among his numerous contributions to Tamil Nadu's development are outstanding universities like Anna University as well as the State Biotechnology Council and gender-sensitive institutions like the Women’s Biotechnology Park.

#Karunanidhi was also keen to see Tamil Nadu progress from food security to nutrition security. Long before India's #foodsecurity Act was introduced, he launched in the 1990s a ‘ #Hunger -free area programme’ in order to fulfil the dream of Mahakavi Subramania Bharathiyar.

The former Chief Minister also married #science with Tamil #literature. At the World Tamil conference in 2010, Dr #Karunanidhi announced the setting up of genetic heritage gardens based on Sangam literature in five zones representing kurinji, mullai, neithal, palai and marutham.

The aim of the #genetic heritage gardens was to create awareness about the invaluable contributions of Tamil scholars towards achieving #foodsecurity and health security, whereby the unique plants and animal breeds of these five regions could be conserved for future generations.

Dr #Karunanidhi had great respect for scientists. In 1989, when I approached him seeking land in Taramani, Chennai for establishing a scientific institution, he said it is he who should be inviting me to establish the institution. @MSSRF was granted the land where it now stands.

A great Tamil scholar and an ardent advocate of #science for #SustainableDevelopment , Dr #Karunanidhi stands tall among political leaders who have promoted science for public good.