Environmental activist Vandana Shiva receives Fukuoka prize 2012

New Delhi, July 23: Dr. Vandana Shiva, an eminent Indian environmental philosopher and activist, was conferred the prestigious FUKUOKA PRIZE 2012 today during a press conference held in New Delhi for her remarkable work in the field of science, technology and ecology. The grand prize includes a citation and prize money of approx. Rs. 33 Lakhs. 

The other dignitaries who were present at the occasion were Mayor Takashima Soichiro, Fukuoka City, Japan; Akitaka Saiki, Ambassador of Embassy of Japan in India and Dr. Ashis Nandy, social and cultural critic who also received the Fukuoka Prize 2007.

Dr. Vandana Shiva is an Indian environmental philosopher who has enlightened many people by presenting a new and original idea about loving nature and protecting the dignity of life. In particular, her penetrating view from the perspective of poor people and women has exposed the contradictions caused by development and globalization. Dr. Shiva has made a great contribution to the earth and to humanity as a female Asian intellectual. 

This year marks its 23rd anniversary; it has presented to 88 leading figures from various fields in last 22 years. Among them are Muhammad Yunus who went on to receive the Nobel Peace prize, and six Indian distinguished individuals; Legendary Sitar Virtuoso Pt. Ravi Shankar, Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Danseuse Ms. Padma Subrahmanyam and scholars like Ms. Romila Thapar, Dr. Ashis Nandy and Mr. Partha Chatterjee. 

About Fukuoka Prize

The FUKUOKA PRIZE was established by FUKUOKA City in Japan in 1990, to annually honor the outstanding work of individuals or groups/organizations to preserve and create unique and diverse cultures of Asia. The aim is to foster and increase awareness of the value of Asian cultures as well as to institute a broad framework for exchange and mutual learning between the people of Asia.