The recent news that Sir David Attenborough has been presented with the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for 2019 in a virtual ceremony has garnered much attention in the public sphere. This event highlights not only Sir David’s contributions to natural history and conservation but also the significance of the award itself.
Indira Gandhi Peace Prize: An Overview
Named after former Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development is an esteemed annual award. Established by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust in 1986, this award carries forward the legacy of one of India’s most impactful leaders.
Each year, the prize, which consists of a citation and a monetary reward of Rs. 25 lakh, is accorded to individuals or organizations. The recipients are selected based on their innovative efforts in various fields including creating a new international economic order, fostering international peace and development, ensuring the application of scientific discoveries for humanity’s welfare, and expanding the territories of freedom.
Profile: Sir David Attenborough
Sir David Attenborough, a renowned English broadcaster and natural historian, has been widely recognized for his contributions to the BBC Natural History Unit. He has scripted and hosted nine natural history documentary series. Collectively known as the Life collection, these series offer a detailed insight into animal and plant life on Earth.
In his long and illustrious career, Sir David has emphasized the importance of maintaining the planet’s biodiversity. He encourages living harmoniously with all life forms and adopting sustainable methods that do not harm the environment.
Past Recipients of Indira Gandhi Peace Prize
Over the years, the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize has been bestowed upon many well-deserving individuals and organizations. Some notable recipients include:
Parliamentarians for Global Action (1986), an international network of over 1300 parliamentarians from more than 140 elected legislatures around the world, who collaborate on peace and justice issues.
UNICEF (1989), the United Nations Children’s Fund, which works tirelessly to uphold children’s rights and improve their wellbeing across the globe.
Eminent agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan (1999) who played a key role in advancing India’s Green Revolution.
Former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan (2003), known for his leadership on global political issues such as poverty, disease outbreak and climate change.
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) (2014), India’s premier space agency, recognized for its significant contributions to space technology.
The UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHRC) (2015) and the Centre for Science and Environment (2018), led by environmentalist Sunita Narain, also form part of this illustrious group.
All in all, the awarding of the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize to Sir David Attenborough underscores the ongoing importance of the prize in recognizing exceptional contributions towards peace, development, and sustainability. Its recipients have not only shaped their respective fields but have also made immense efforts to create a better world.
