The Gandhi Peace Prize is a national award of India given for distinguished contributions to social, economic, and political transformation through non-violence and Gandhian ideals.
Background and Establishment
- Instituted in 1995
- Established by the Government of India
- Commemorates the 125th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
- Administered by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India
Objective
The prize recognises individuals or institutions whose work reflects:
- Ahimsa (non-violence)
- Truth and ethical conduct
- Social justice and human dignity
- Peaceful resistance and transformation
- Sustainable development inspired by Gandhian philosophy
Nature of the Award
- Cash prize: ₹1 crore
- Citation
- Plaque
- Can be awarded to individuals or institutions
- Open to all nationalities
Selection Process
- Awarded annually, but not mandatory every year
- Selected by a jury chaired by the Prime Minister of India
- Jury includes eminent persons from diverse fields
Notable Recipients
- Nelson Mandela (2001) – For lifelong commitment to peace and non-violence
- Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (1995) – For non-violent resistance (posthumous)
- Grameen Bank (2007) – For poverty alleviation and grassroots empowerment
- Yohei Sasakawa (2019) – For work in leprosy eradication
- Gita Press, Gorakhpur (2021) – For contribution to dissemination of Indian philosophical values
Significance
- Reinforces India’s civilisational commitment to Gandhian values
- Promotes peaceful methods of conflict resolution
- Enhances India’s moral leadership and soft power globally
The Gandhi Peace Prize stands as a reminder that lasting change is achieved not through force, but through ethical and non-violent action.
