Sheikh Hasina chosen for Indira Gandhi peace award

An announcement by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Thursday said Sheikh Hasina  embarked on her “Vision 2021”, aimed at transforming Bangladesh into a middle-income country by eliminating poverty and inequity, after being elected as prime minister last year.

“This document reaffirms Bangladesh's commitment to promoting world peace,” said a PMO statement. The international jury headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Sheikh Hasina's determined drive to alleviate poverty and secure social and economic justice for her people was recognised.

Sheikha Hasina, who is the eldest daughter of Mujibur Rehman, the founding father of Bangladesh, will receive the award  next year. The award carries a Rs 25 lakh purse and a plaque. Mohammad El-Baradei, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), was the last recipient of this award. The IAEA chief was recognised for his opposition to the use of nuclear energy for military purposes and his steadfast espousal of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, sustained over many years.