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Source — Source:TH ///Category — GS Paper 1 ///Published — 2026-01-23 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire, Quick Facts For Prelims, GS Paper - 1 ///Source — Source:TH ///Category — GS Paper 1 ///Published — 2026-01-23 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire, Quick Facts For Prelims, GS Paper - 1 ///

Source:TH · GS Paper 1

Indira Gandhi Peace Prize

The Indira Gandhi Peace Prize, instituted in 1986, recognises outstanding contributions to international peace, disarmament and development. In 2025 it was awarded to Mozambican activist Graca Machel, underscoring India's use of soft power through prestigious global awards.

2026-01-23

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Source:TH

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Key Facts

Inception: 1986, by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust.
Award Frequency: Annually.
Cash Component: Rs. 1 crore (approximately USD 12,000).
Components: Citation, trophy, and cash prize.
Core Domains: Peace, Disarmament, Development.
2025 Laureate: Graca Machel, Mozambican rights activist.

Background & Context

Established to honour the memory of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and to project India’s commitment to global peace.
Managed by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, a private charitable trust set up by the Gandhi family.
The prize aligns with India’s broader diplomatic agenda of promoting peaceful coexistence, non‑proliferation, and human development.

Significance for India / Governance / Policy

Soft Power Tool: Enhances India’s image as a promoter of peace and development on the world stage.
Strategic Diplomacy: Recognising foreign individuals/organizations strengthens bilateral ties and opens channels for cooperation in security and development.
Policy Alignment: Mirrors India’s stance on disarmament (e.g., participation in the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons) and sustainable development (SDGs).
Domestic Inspiration: Highlights Indian values of humanitarian service, encouraging similar initiatives within the country.

Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions

No specific constitutional article; however, the award reflects the Directive Principles of State Policy (Article 41 – right to work, education, and public assistance) and foreign policy under Article 73 (executive power of the Union).

Recent Awardee – Graca Machel (2025)

Profile: Renowned Mozambican activist, former First Lady of Mozambique and South Africa, champion of children’s rights, gender equality, and humanitarian relief.
Contribution: Long‑standing work in peacebuilding, post‑conflict reconstruction, and advocacy for disarmament.
Relevance: Demonstrates the prize’s global reach and India’s recognition of leaders who advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals.