“In a recent development of paramount significance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted his approval to the appointment of former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu as a nominated member of the distinguished Gandhi Peace Prize jury. This profound announcement was conveyed by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy in a formal communique addressed to Mr. Naidu. The letter, made accessible to the media, underscores the elevated significance of this appointment.
The esteemed Gandhi Peace Prize, an annual accolade inaugurated by the Government of India in 1995 to commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, remains emblematic of the profound ideals professed by the Mahatma himself. Prime Minister Modi, who serves as the head of the jury, is instrumental in this selection process.
A momentous feature of this prestigious prize is its inclusivity, as it welcomes nominations from individuals of diverse nationalities, races, linguistic backgrounds, castes, creeds, and genders. The recipient of this honor is entitled to a substantial sum of Rs. 1 crore, in addition to a commendation, a decorative plaque, and a finely crafted traditional handicraft or handloom item.
Minister Reddy’s letter to Mr. Naidu conveys, ‘I have the privilege of informing you about the gracious approval of the Honorable Prime Minister and the Chairman of the Jury of Gandhi Peace Prize regarding your nomination as a member in the existing Jury, for the remaining tenure of the term, which extends until the 15th of March, 2024.’ His missive concludes with a courteous request for Mr. Naidu’s acceptance of this prestigious nomination.
The illustrious history of the Gandhi Peace Prize includes revered organizations such as ISRO, Ramakrishna Mission, Grameen Bank of Bangladesh, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, and Akshaya Patra, Bengaluru, among its distinguished recipients.”
