Gandhi Peace Prize

• 23 Mar 2021

Why in News

The father of the nation of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the late Sultan of Oman, Qaboos bin Said Al Said are to be awarded the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2020 and 2019 respectively.

Key Points

• About the Gandhi Peace Prize:
  
  • Institution of Award: The annual award was instituted by the Government of India in 1995 during the commemoration of the 125^th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi for those involved in social, economic and political transformation through non-violence.
  • Rewards: The award carries an amount of Rs. 1 crore, a Citation in a scroll, a plaque as well as an exquisite traditional handicraft/handloom item.
  • Conferred Upon: The prize can be given to individuals, associations, institutions or organizations.
    
    • It can be divided between two persons/institutions who are considered by the Jury to be equally deserving of recognition in a given year.
    • It is open to all persons regardless of nationality, creed, race or sex.
  • Selection Committee: The jury chaired by the Prime Minister and other members are the Chief Justice of India, the leader of the single largest Opposition party in the Lok Sabha, Lok Sabha Speaker and founder of Sulabh International.
• Sheikh Mujibur Rahman:
  
  • He was known as Bangabandhu. Also regarded as "Jatir Janak" or "Jatir Pita" (both meaning "Father of the Nation") of Bangladesh.
  • He was born on 17^th March 1920 in Tungipara, India (now in Bangladesh) and passed away on 15^th August 1975 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
    
    • Year 2020 marked the birth centenary of Bangabandhu.
  • He was a Bengali leader who became the first prime minister of Bangladesh (1972–75) and later became the president of the same in 1975.
  • He began his formal political career in 1949 as a co-founder of the Awami League.
  • He played a crucial role in advocating political autonomy for East Pakistan, the detached eastern part of Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
  • He was chosen for Gandhi Peace Prize 2020 in recognition of his outstanding contributions towards social, economic and political transformation through non-violent and other Gandhian methods.
  • He was a champion of human rights and freedom, and is a hero to Indians as well.
    
    • The legacy and inspiration of Bangabandhu has made the heritage of both countries more comprehensive and deep-rooted, and that the path shown by Bangabandhu has laid a strong foundation for the partnership, progress and prosperity of both countries over the last decade.
• Qaboos bin Said Al Said:
  
  • He has been the Arab world's longest-serving ruler. He ruled Oman for almost half a century.
    
    • In 1970, with the help of British, Qaboos overthrew his father in a bloodless coup, emerging as the Sultan at age 29.
  • He was a visionary leader whose twin policy of moderation and mediation in addressing international issues won him praise and respect across the globe.
  • He was also the architect of the special ties between India and Oman.
    
    • He had studied in India and always maintained a special relationship with India.
  • The Gandhi Peace Prize 2019 recognises his leadership in strengthening the ties between India and Oman and his efforts to promote peace in the Gulf region.

Source: TH