The Portuguese Prime Minister, Antonio Costa, has made an announcement at the recent National Committee for Commemoration of the 150th Birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi meeting. The ‘Gandhi of Lisbon’ as he is often referred to, due to his Gandhian principles inspired work, unveiled the Gandhi Citizenship Education Prize, aimed at propagating Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals in Portugal. A note of significance is that the inaugural edition of this prize will focus on animal welfare.
Committees Established to Promote Gandhian Ideals
In 2018, the Government of India took a significant step to further the propagation of Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals both nationally and internationally This effort involved the constitution of two committees to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
The first is a National Committee (NC) led by the President of India. This committee features a diverse membership, encompassing the Vice-President, the Prime Minister, all State Chief Ministers, representatives from across the political spectrum, Gandhians, thinkers, and eminent persons from all walks of life. This committee also includes several foreign dignitaries, such as Tulsi Gabbard, Desmond Tutu, Bernie Meyer (often referred to as the American Gandhi), Yoshiro Mori (Former Japanese Prime Minister), and, of course, Antonio Costa.
The second body established is an Executive Committee (EC), which operates under the direct leadership of the Indian Prime Minister. The purpose of this committee is elucidated in the next section.
Mandate of the Executive Committee
The main directive given to the EC is to devise policies and formulate guidelines for commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Furthermore, they are entrusted with drafting and executing plans, programmes, and activities for this commemoration.
Gandhi Citizenship Education Prize
This prize, as announced by the Portuguese PM Antonio Costa, is intended to disseminate the principles and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi throughout Portugal. The focus of the premiere edition of this prize will be on advancements in animal welfare. This initiative further solidifies the international reach and influence of Gandhian values.
Facts At A Glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Announcement by | Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa |
| Prize Name | Gandhi Citizenship Education Prize |
| Focus of First Edition | Animal Welfare |
| National Committee Leader | President of India |
| Executive Committee Leader | Prime Minister of India |
| Purpose of Committees | Promote Gandhian Ideals Nationally & Internationally |
