By TCN News,
Guwahati: Prime Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh presented Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award For National Integration 2008 to senior Journalist MJ Akbar at a function on 18th Feb. here in the capital city of Assam. The Award, given to the people who have contributed significantly to the causes of social harmony and national integration, has been instituted by Assam Government.
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh presenting the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award 2008 to M.J. Akbar, at a function, in Guwahati, Assam on February 18, 2011..The Chief Minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi is also seen.
Addressing the award ceremony, the PM said the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award for National Integration is “a small token of our gratitude to one of the great sons of Assam and India. Shri Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s contribution to the Indian freedom struggle was invaluable. A firm believer in the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, he left an indelible imprint on the political landscape of our great nation. Shri Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s long and distinguished career in public life, which culminated in his occupying the august position of President of India is a shining example of commitment to ethical values and selfless service to the people. Indeed, his contribution to the building of our society and country continues inspiring all of us.”
He lauded the Assam Government for instituting the award. “The institution of the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award by the Government of Assam is a befitting tribute to the memory of this great leader. I compliment the Chief Minister of Assam for taking this initiative.”
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh presenting the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award 2009 to Hema Bharali, at a function, in Guwahati, Assam on February 18, 2011.
While congratulating and complimenting MJ Akbar, the Prime Minister said: MJ Akbar is a distinguished editor and a prolific author. He occupies a special place in Indian journalism. His deep understanding of contemporary events, coupled with an incisive analytical ability have educated and informed our people on several vexed issues that our country faces. Known for his commitment to personal honesty and professional integrity, Shri Akbar has set a benchmark in the field of journalism for others to emulate. Indeed, his work has contributed handsomely to fostering social harmony and national integration. I applaud Shri Akbar’s achievements and wish him even more success in the future.”
The PM conferred the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award for the year 2009 on freedom fighter, Gandhian and eminent social activist Hema Bharali.
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh addressing at the presentation of the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Memorial Award 2008 & 2009 and unveiling of plaque of the JICA assisted Water Supply Project for Guwahati City, in Guwahati, Assam on February 18, 2011.
“Smt. Hema Bharali’s life is a shining example of selfless service to the downtrodden. An eminent freedom fighter, steeped in Gandhian philosophy, she has been closely associated with the Bhoodan movement. Over the past several decades, she has constantly engaged herself in promoting education and activities for social uplift of the under privileged sections of our society, thus contributing to the cause of social harmony. She has also worked tirelessly for the welfare and empowerment of women and contribution to peace and non-violence. She is a worthy winner of the Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed award,” said the PM.
[Photos by PIB}