Why in news ? Shri Shivshankar Menon, former National Security Advisor of India, diplomat, and former UN official has been recently conffered with the INDIRA GANDHI PRIZE FOR PEACE ,DISARMAMENT AND DEVELOPMENT.

Awarding Body:

• Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, which promotes peace, development, and disarmament in honor of Indira Gandhi’s legacy.

Reason for the Award:

• Recognized for lifelong commitment to peace, human rights, and global security.
• Significant contributions in gender equality, nuclear disarmament, and diplomacy.
• Advocacy for human welfare, democracy, and environmental responsibility.

Significance of the Award:

• Honors individuals or organizations promoting peace, disarmament, and development
• Celebrates those who embody Indira Gandhi’s vision of justice, freedom, and equality.
• Highlights Menon’s dedication to building a fairer, freer, and more peaceful world.

About INDIRA GANDHI PRIZE FOR PEACE, DISARMAMENT AND DEVELOPMENT:

• Instituted in 1986 by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust after her assassination in 1984.
• Awarded annually, usually on Indira Gandhi’s birth anniversary, November 19.

Purpose:

• Established to honor outstanding contributions to peace, development, and disarmament, reflecting the ideals of Indira Gandhi.
• Recognizes individuals or organizations working to promote social justice, equality, and global harmony.

First Recipient:

• The first award (1986) was conferred upon Alva Myrdal, a Swedish diplomat and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, for her work in disarmament and peace initiatives.

Selection Criteria:

• Contributions must advance peace, human development, and international cooperation.
• Focus on efforts that reduce conflict, promote social justice, and protect human rights.

About SHRI SHIVSHANKAR MENON:

• Senior Indian diplomat and former National Security Advisor (NSA) of India.
• Served as Foreign Secretary of India (2006–2009).
• Held key positions in UN organizations, including Executive Director of UN Women and other international assignments.

Education & Early Career:

• Educated at Stephen’s College, Delhi, and the University of Cambridge.
• Joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1972.
• Served in Indian missions in Japan, Sri Lanka, and the United States, among others.

Major Contributions:

• Played a pivotal role in India’s foreign policy, diplomacy, and national security strategies.
• Advocated for peace, conflict resolution, and human rights
• Worked to promote gender equality during his tenure at UN Women.
• Contributed to global nuclear disarmament discussions and security cooperation.