Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding

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Container s-0864-0012: Public Relations Files of the Secretary-General: U Thant

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Indie I N D I A N C 0 U N C. I L FOR CULTURAL RLLAT IONS AZAD BHAVAN INDRAPRASTHA ESTATE NEW D E LH I- I .

CONFIDENTIAL

Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding

When Jawaharlal Nehru passed away in May 1964, people all the world over shared in the profound grief of the Indian people, for he was not only a valiant fighter for national freedom and unity and the chief architect of modern India, but was equally dedicated to the ideals of world peace and international understanding. He strove tirelessly against war and for constructing the defences of peace. Among the many tributes paid to him was the decision of the Government of India to institute a Jawaharlal Nehru Award to be made annually for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, goodwill and friendship among peoples of the world. Details of the Award are given in the enclosed Code of Procedure.

The first Award, for the year 1965, was made to U Thant, Secretary General of United Nations. The Award for 1966 was made posthumously to Dr. Martin Luther King, for 1967 to Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan and for 1968 to Mr. Yehudi Menuhin.

On behalf of the Jury I have the honour to invite you to nominate a candidate for the Award to be given for the year 1969. May we invite your attention particularly to Chapters II and III of the Code of Procedure and request you to support your nomination with :

1. A curriculum vitae of the candidate; 2. A statement of the work, achievement, accomplishment or performance on which the claim to the Award is based; 3. A reasoned justification for the nomination.

The last date for submission of proposals for the 1969 Award has been extended by three months. In order to receive consideration, your nomination should therefore reach the Indian Council for Cultural Relations not later than August 1, 1970.

This invitation is personal to you and we are confident that your proposal will reflect the noble purpose which informs the institution of the Award.

H.E. U Taunt, Gecretary-^eneral, United "•fc.ttons Qr_'£un.iration, '12nd Street, 1st Avenue, (Inam Rahman) Hew York, V!. Y. : U.S.A.). Secretary to the Jury

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Mr. Ismieux

IMia PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE Of INDIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS 3 EAST 64.TH STREET NEW YORK, N. Y. 1OO21

May 8, 1967. No.NY(PM)/302/3/67

Excellency,

I am enclosing for your perusal a copy of my letter to the Permanent Representatives at the United Nations, inviting their nominations for the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding for the year 1966.

In deference to your expressed sentiments that as Secretary General of the United Nations you feel it would not be proper for you to make such a proposal, I refrain from inviting you to nominate a candidate for the 1966 Award.

May I take this opportunity to reiterate my personal gratification at your receiving the first Jawaharlal Nehru Award, and also at your generous gesture in donating the proceeds of the Award to the United Nations International School?

Accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

(G. Parthasarathi) Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

His Excellency U.Thant Secretary General The United Nations New York PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF INDIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

3 EAST 84TH STREET NEW YORK, N. Y. IOO21

NY(PM)/302/3/67 May 8, 1967 Excellency: I have the -honour to invite your attention to the Jawaharlal ..Nehru Award for International Understanding instituted by the G&vernfasnt of India to be given every year as a .tribute to the mastery of the late .Prime Ministere The last date for the proposals for the 1966 Awa'£d to be given during this -year is May 31, 1967 i " The first Award, for the year 1365, was mad* fcy the J«yy to- U Thantj. Secr^tasy General of the United Nations. It may be recalled that 'the Award will be given for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, goodwill and friendship araong peoples of the world* The Award includes an amount of Rupees 100,000 in cash (convertible into foreign currency) and a Citation* and is open to all persons regardless of nationality, race, creed or sex, but not an association, institution & The Award will be made by a Jury, appointed by the € of India for this purpose^ The Jury consists of seven eminent Indians including the Vice~President of^ndia and the Chief Justice of India who are pestnaneftt ex-officio members. The Jury is expected to come to a decision by September, 1967, and the selected candidate will be invited to New Delhi to receive the Award in person on the lat& Prime Minister Nehru's birthday anniversary, November 14, 1967; To be cohsicta&d for the Award, it would ordinarily be necessary for a person to be recommended in writing by an eminent personality as indicated i« Chapter IV of the Code of Procedure, a copy of which is enclosed^ . I shall.be grateful for any name that ysur Excellency might deem fit to suggest for the Award, Accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration *

(Gi. Parthasarathi) Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Permanent Representative ef India to the United Nations INDIAN COUNCIL FOR CULTURAL RELATIONS AZAD BHAVAN INDRAPRA5THA ESTATE NEW DELHI-1

•-1* April 2, 1967

Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding Your Excellency,

When Jawaharlal Nehru passed away in May 1964, people all the world over shared in the profound grief of the Indian people, for he was not only a valiant fighter for national freedom and unity and the chief architect of modern India; he was equally dedicated to the ideals of world peace and international understanding. He strove tirelessly against war and for constructing the defences of peace. He made it his life's mission to bring to all people freedom from fear and hunger which alone, he was convinced, could ensure abiding peace and amity in the world.

Among the many tributes paid to Jawaharlal Nehru was the decision of the Government of India to institute a Jawaharlal Nehru Award to be given for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, goodwill and friendship among peoples of the world. Details of the Award are given in the enclosed Code of Proce- dure.

The first Award, for the year 1965, was made by the Jury to U Thant, Secretary-General of United Nations.

On behalf of the Jury I take pleasure in inviting you, in terms of Chapter IV of the Code, to send us your proposal for the second Award which would be made for the year 1966. The last date for receiving proposals for the second Award has been extended by the Jury to 31 May 1967.

We are confident that your proposal will be made after careful consideration and will reflect the noble purpose which informs the institution of the Jawaharlal Nehru Award. Yours faithfully,

Inam Rahman Secretary to the Jury JAWAHARLAL NEHRU AWARD FOR INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING President Indian Council for Cultural Relations PROGRAMME requests the pleasure of your company

National Anthem at the Presentation of Address of Welcome the First Jawaharlal Nehru Award for by the President, ICCR International Understanding Address by the Prime Minister to Citation U Thant Presentation of the Award Secretary-General, United Nations Organization by the President of India President's Address by the President of India Address by U Thant on Wednesday, 12th April 1967 at 10 a.m. National Anthem at the Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.

R. s. V. P. Secretary, ICCR Azad Bhavan (Guests are requested to bring this invita- New Delhi 1. tion and to be in their seats by 9.50 a.m.) UNITED NATIONS . Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)

Press Release SG/1694 3 May 1967

SECReTARY-GENERAL,..PRESENTS NEHRU AWARD PROCEEDS TO UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

At a reception held yesterday in the Secretary-General's suite on the thirty-eighth floor at United Nations Headquarters, U Thant handed over a cheque for $13,230, which he had received with the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for international understanding, to Miss Julia Henderson, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the United Nations .International School. In donating this sum of money, the Secretary-General expressed the hope that individuals} private organizations and Governments would contribute generously to the School. Among those present at the reception vere Roger Seydoux, Permanent Representative of France; Gopalaswami Parthasarathi, Permanent Representative of India; Bohdan Tomorowicz, Permanent Representative of Poland; and United Nations officials. Following is the text of the letter from Miss Henderson to the Secretary- General, U Thant: "On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the United Nations International School, I should like to express our sincere thanks for the cheque for $13., 230 we have received from you in connexion with the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for Int ernat ional Under standing. "We will utilize this generous gift as a part of the Development Fund •which, as you know, is being used for scholarships and for improving the quality of education in our School. As agreed by the Board of Trustees at its meeting of 7 November 1966, the scholarships made possible by this gift will be designated the 'Thant Scholarship Award' to be offered to United Nations staff children in the secondary school of UNIS. If you have any suggestions on the criteria to be used in the selection of the recipients, I am sure that our Bursary Committee will be pleased to take them as the basis for the awards. (more) - 2 - Press Release SG/1691* 3 t&y 1967

"We are continually encouraged by your unfailing support of the School; we attach double significance to this gift which links your devotion to international education to the ideals of peace and security for all mankind. "I attach a copy of the acknowledgement -we have sent to the Secretary of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations." Copy of Letter to Indian Council 27 April 1967 "Dear.-Mr. Rahiaan,. "The Secretary-General of the United Nations has transmitted to me, as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the United Nations International School, the full award of $13,230 made to him in connexion with the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding. "The Board has asked me to express our sincere appreciation not only to the Secretary-General but also through you to the donors of this generous prize. The money will be used for scholarships for deserving United Nations staff children in the secondary division of the United Nations International School. Many of our children show great promise to make their own contribution to peace and security in the years to come. "I am attaching a brochure about our School and the last report of the Secretary-General to the General Assembly about its progressive development. "¥e feel greatly honoured that the Secretary-General has chosen us as the ultimate recipients of this award. It represents for us the double significance of the Secretary-General's unfailing support of international education and his contribution to world peace, recognized in the memory of your great Prime Minister who contributed so much not only to his country but to the United Nations. " Sincerely yours,

Julia Henderson Chairman Board of Trustees Mr. Inam Rahman, Secretary to the Jury for the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding Indian Council for Cultural Relations Aaad Bhavan, New Delhi 1, India W TVTVlfr W UNITED NATIONS !NFORMATION CENTRE, BURMA

NO. 2-1, MANAWHARI ROAD, RANGOON.

Phone: 11144 12758

No.5.0/16?

18 April 196?,

To : Overseas Briefing Section, ERD/OPI t From : J.S. Szuszkievri.cz, Director, UNIC, Rangoon' /,•• •'•'' ,'/ ;

Subject : Press Survey

Nehru Prize for U Thant LUDU, in the attached editorial., says that Secretary-General of the UN, U Thant, the first recipient of the Nehru Prize given by the

Government of India to perpetuate the ideals of India's Independence fighter, can be counted as one of the many young admirers who looked up to Mr. Nehru when the latter was fighting and suffering for Indian independence. The paper adds that at this moment no person more fit to receive the Prize than U Thant can be found; but it stresses the heavy responsibility lying on both the donor and recipient to further international understanding for, says the paper, "the world is watching how the Government of India, the donor of the Nehru Prize, and the recipient, U Thant, are comporting themselves in the imperialist and anti-imperialist struggles".

Radio Peking on U Thant's Visit to India In an English language commentary monitored here on April 15> Radio Peking said that Secretary-General U Thant had gone to New Delhi to talk about his "US-inspired peace swindle" and "peace fraud". A second reason was to try to persuade India and Pakistan to form an alliance, "that is an alliance against China. It is quite obvious that this is the aim of U Thant's mission to India, upon order of his US masters." ' •H lEcoocoo -p e^pcB caooSgcS •H COOGf ^8 00 OT CO eoos GOOO dJ8$ bd cooo 3«j 3f-t

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' Having just come back from the presentation of the Nehru Award ;: to the "Secretary General, I am sending you herewith three copies of the pamphlet containing the programme and the text of the citation. The ceremony went extremely well. It was dignified and not too long and was attended by most members of the Cabinet as well as all the Heads of diplomatic missions.

j0^ • Sincerely yours,

John McDiarmid Resident Representative

"..Mr. C.V. Narasimhan '•"' - Chef de Cabinet Executive Office of the Se cretary-Gene ral United Nations New York Jawaharlal MrnJward for International Understanding

Presentation to U THANT April 12, 1967 : New Delhi National Anthem

Address of Welcome by the President, ICCR

Address by the Prime Minister

Citation

Presentation of the Award by the President of India •4s President's Address

Address by U Thant

National Anthem AS a tribute to the memory of the late Prime Minister Shri Jawaharlal Nehru and to his dedication to the cause of world peace and international understanding, Government of India have instituted a Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding to be given annually for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, goodwill and friendship among peoples of the world. The Award shall be made by a Jury which has been appointed by the Government of India for this purpose. The Jury consists of 7 eminent Indians including the Vice-President of India and the Chief Justice of India who shall be permanent ex-officio members. The other five members shall be nominated in the following manner: (1) One Chief-Justice of a State High Court; (2) One Vice-Chancellor of an Indian University ; (3) One person representing the Press of India: (4) Two eminent persons from public life in India. There shall be one Award each year and it shall carry an amount of Rs. 1 lakh in cash (convertible into foreign currency) and a citation. The Award may be divided between two persons who are considered by the Jury to be equally deserving of recognition in a given year. The Award is open to all persons regardless of nationality, race, creed or sex, but an association, institution or organization shall not be eligible for the Award. To come under consideration for the Award it would ordinarily be necessary that a person shall be recommended in writing by someone with the competence therefor, such as, for- mer members of the Jury, Members of Parliament of India and members of Governments of different States which are members of the United Nations; the Secretary-General of the United Nations and other leaders in International organizations whose objectives are promotion of peace, international understanding, and emancipation of mankind, ; Vice-Chancellors and university professors of political science, history, jurisprudence, economics, sociology, philosophy and science; heads of delegations to the United Nations and UNESCO, heads of Indian Missions in the countries which are members of the United Nations, and heads of foreign Missions in India of countries which are members of the United Nations. Ordinarily only proposals coming from competent persons invited to nominate shall be considered. However, a proposal shall not be invalid for consideration by the Jury merely on the ground of not having emanated from competent persons. In all such cases the decision of the Jury shall be final. Personal applications for the Award shall not be considered. The Award shall be made annually starting with the year 1966. If however it is considered that none of the proposals that have been made merit recognition, the Jury shall be free to withhold the Award for that year. Only recent work achieved within five years immediately preceding the nomination shall be considered for the Award. An older work may however be considered if its significance has not become apparent until recently. A written jjjork in order to be eligible for consideration shall have been published. The Award need not go only to a person holding a high public office. A person who has quietly worked for peace and international understanding and friendship between peoples of different countries, may well be deserving of the Award. The proposals received by the Secretariat and discussions, deliberations and proceedings of the Jury in connection with the Award shall not be made public or otherwise revealed. Decisions of the Jury are not subject to confirmation by any other authority and no appeal or protest can be made against them. The Jawaharlal Nehru Award is administered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Azad Bhavan, New Delhi. As Secretary-General, U Thant has shown that knowing what it meant, no one could accept the position, except from a sense of duty. From this position of great influence in one of the most critical periods of history, he has secured world-wide respect for Citation his integrity of mind, sincerity of purpose, outspokenness, and impartial attitude. He has won the support, understanding and cooperation of colleagues, the respect of representatives of The first Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Under- member nations, and the admiration not only of the mem- standing rightly goes to a man who has become the articulate ber Governments but also of the peoples of the United conscience of the United Nations and its inner voice, a man of Nations. vision with a profound understanding of the problems of the world, a man of quiet courage and dedication, of steadfast devotion to the In his utterances, marked by force of conviction, U Thant has cause of peace and understanding between nations. given powerful expression to mankind's need for undisturbed From his early days in Pantanaw in the Irrawaddy Delta of peace and progress. While working for enlarging the areas of Burma, U Thant drew inspiration from all that is best in the agreement, he has established the clear connection between Buddhist tradition and set high standards for himself, achieving social and economic development and peace and security in the efficiency, competence and integrity in whatever he did. With world. With his belief that the basic issue is the battle for his deep interest in literature, he achieved a style of ease, the minds of men, he has carried on a campaign for education distinction, and power with its note of passion for truth and for peace. justice. U Thant has constantly used the prestige of his office, with A fervent believer in Buddhism, he understood and respected ability and forthrightness, for improving the moral climate of the fact that there were hundreds of millions who believed in the world. In a lonely, awesome job, he has not been afraid of other religions. It was therefore not difficult for him to develop facing problems or of speaking when he must, never allowing the a sense of fellowship with men of different races, religions discretion,imposed on him to degenerate into expediency. He and political beliefs. With his faith in democratic ideals and in has been'-'judicious in handling his responsibilities and patient in the dignity of man, he has had a firm grasp of the issues that urging nations to believe in the force of argument, instead of the divide the world, and in facing them, he has drawn upon a vast argument of force. He has become the symbol of the ideals of reserve of physical, mental and spiritual resources. the United Nations. It was a fitting tribute to the admirable manner in which he performed his onerous functions that for a second time U Thant emerged into the larger world from a world of books he was unanimously elected Secretary-General from among the and meditation, after deep studies in political theory, history, one hundred and twenty-one Nations represented at the United biography and philosophy. In his work as headmaster and school Nations. superintendent, he showed the independence of outlook and clarity of mind for which he was to become well known. He was U Thant's work carries forward the vision of one world for deeply Involved in his nation's struggle for freedom and gradually which Jawaharlal Nehru lived and worked and his life is an achieved a record of which any public servant could be proud. In example of the human quality on which Jawaharlal Nehru set this calm, persevering man of the people, members of the United great value. The peace-loving peoples of all countries will Nations found the person most acceptable for the post of appreciate that the Award named after Jawaharlal Nehru goes to Secretary-General, and he was unanimously chosen. this chosen and proved servant of the world. U Thant, Secretary-General of the United Nations, issued the following statement on 27 September, 1966, after his selection was announced for the first Jawahar/al Nehru Award for International Understanding.

"I have been highly honoured to learn that the distinguished Members of the Jury of the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for Interna- tional Understanding have decided to bestow on me the first award established in memory of one of the great statesmen of this century. I had the highest respect and esteem for the late Prime Minister of India, whom I had the opportunity to meet many times, at Colombo, Bandung, and Belgrade, on my visits to India, and on the occasion of his visits to Burma and the United Nations. I deem it, therefore, a signal honour to be chosen to receive the first award established in his memory. "I am particularly appreciative of the fact that the award is given 'for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, goodwill and friendship among peoples of the World'. "In deciding to accept the award, I have taken into account that nominations for it were made by representatives of governments, members of the United Nations and by outstanding personalities in the field of international relations. "The late Prime Minister was devoted to children and young people. I feel, therefore, that it would be fitting and proper for me to donate the prize money to the development fund of the United Nations International School." Following are the present members of the Jury, who apart from the two permanent ex-officio members shall hold office for a period of three years :

1. Vice-President of India.

2. Chief-Justice of India.

Mr. Justice Khaleel Ahmad Chief Justice Orissa High Court.

Dr. D. S. Reddi Vice-Chancellor Osmania University. • &•- Mr. M. Chalapathi Rau Editor, National Herald Lucknow.

6. Mrs. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit Member of Parliament.

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,v UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)

Press Release SG/T/3AT 12 April 1967

SECPETARY-GEIJERAL. U THAI^T, RECEI^S JAWAKAP.LAL NEHRU AWARD

(The following was received. • f rora a United Nations Information Officer acconvpaying the

At an impressive and dignified ceremony in New Delhi today, the Secretary- General, U Thant, received ths first Jawoharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding. The presentation was made by the President of India, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. The ceremony started at 10:00 a.m. (local time) at the Vigyan Bhavan. Also participating in the ceremony were the Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi; External Affairs Ministei^ M.C. Chagla, who is also President of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations; other Cabinet Ministers; members of diplomatic corps, and about 1S000 gues-cs. In an opening address, Mr. Chagla lauded U Thant's great compassion for humanity and his quest for peace. He referred to U Thant's efforts towards achieving a peaceful solution to the Vlet-Kam. conflict, and wished all success to those efforts to ultimately result in the establishing of an independent and neutral Viet-Nam in South-East Asia. He said that it was most fitting that the first Nehru Award should go to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, U Thant. The next speaker, the Prime Minister of India declared: "Wo choice could have been more apt than this one." Mrs. Gandhi reiterated India's full support for the United Nations and its quest for world peace. She recalled Mr. Nehru's words: "Ho peace could possibly be achieved without freedom and equality."

(more) - 2 ~ Press Release SG/T/lVT 12 April 1967

Inam Rahman, Secretary, Indian Council for Cultural Relations, read the citation of the Award, which stated, inter alia: "The first Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding rightly goes to the man who has "become the articulate conscience of the United Nations and its inner voice, a man of vision with a profound understanding of the problems of the world, a man of quiet courage and dedication, of steadfast devotion to the cause of peace and understanding "between nations," The citation continued: "In his utterances, marked "by -the force of conviction, U Thant has given a powerful expression to mankind's need for an undisturbed peace and progress. While working towards enlarging the areas of agreement, he has established a clear connexion between social and econoa-'l: development and peace and security in the world. With his belief that the basic issue is the battle for the minds of men, he has carried on a campaign for an education for peace." The citation concludes: "U Thant!s work carries forward a vision of a world for which Jawaharlal Nehru lived and worked, and his life is an example of human quality on which Jawaharlal Nehru set a great value. The peace-loving peoples of all countries will appreciate that the Award named after Jawaharlal Nehru goes to this chosen and proved servant of the world." The next speaker, President'Radhakrishnan, paid tribute to U Thant"anrl his efforts to settle peacefully the Viet-Nam conflict. He added that, as a «::«u3 Buddhist, U Thant believed in a peace without the defeat of either side, and concluded by calling him "a great servant of peace and understanding". The last speaker was the Secretary-General (for text of statement by Secretary-General, see press release SG/SM/* * '1 •' t

UNITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, N.Y. (FOR USE OP INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AN OFFICIAL RECORD)

CAUTION:. ADVANCE TEXT . Press Release SG/SM/691 Not for use before 0030 hours (EST) 11 April 196? (0530 GMT) Wednesday..12 April 196?

TEXT OF STATEMENT. BY SECRETARY^MERAL ON RECEIVING NEHRU MEMORIAL AWARD

Following is the text of a statement by the Secretary-General, U Thant, on his receipt of the first Jawaharlal Kehru Award for International Under- standing, which -was presest&g. to fc&n, ife fer Delhi on 12 April "by the President of India, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan:

I am most grateful to His Excellency, the President, for his very gracious words about me and for his vise observations on the human situation today. I also wish to thank Her Excellency, the Prime Minister, for her kind and generous remarks and especially for her reiteration of India's full support of the United Nations and its efforts towards world peace. May I also express my appreciation to the Honourable Minister for External Affairs for his warm words of welcome, and to Mr. Rahman for the citation which he has just read. 1o be the first recipient of the Nehru Memorial Award would be a. special honour i>.r anyone, but for a Secretary-General of the United Nations, it has a particular significance. The award is given "for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, good will and friendship among the peoples of the world". To receive such an award in memory of Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru adds inspiration and encouragement to the honour. Mr. Nehru was a towering figure in the years of transition which transformed the world after World War II. His greatness did not spring from physical power or political manoeuvering, but primarily from the depth and wisdom of his own nature. He saw the modern world, with all its changes, promises, dangers and problems in the clear light of his own intellectual and spiritual calm. The belief that an ethical approach must be taken to all aspects of life,

(more) 2 - Press Release SG/SM/691 11 April 196T

Including large-scale public activity, and a deep respect and love for the dauntlessness of the human spirit, allowed him to face the risks, disappoint- ments and difficulties of public life, "both national and international, with calmness and courage. On one occasion he said: "How amazing is the spirit of manl In spite of innumerable failings, man throughout the ages has sacrificed his life and all he held dear for an ideal, for truth, for faith, for country and honour. ITaat ideal may change, "but the capacity for self-sacrifice continues, and "because of that much may be forgiven man, and it is impossible to lose hope for hin. In the midst of disaster he has not lost his dignity or his faith in the values he cherishes, at the mercy of nature's mighty forces, less than a speck of dust in this vast universe, he has hurled defiance at the elemental fires and with his mind, cradle of revolution, has sought to • If- " ?.' *-' ••*;* • "••*.•••— r* W, '. ' .->*.- ••• V- I. • V '- - • ••• - • •' •• ^ •*•"" - '• - • 4 Jf- • ' -» *n -*f. "—-:••«- •*»-• -»X*fc.A • ~:~^ * 4., master them," Mr. Nehru, for all his great stature, was not, of course, entirely immune to the occupational dilemma of all public men, and so there were times, as there are for all national leaders, when his actions had to be adjusted to the needs of political realities, Mr. Nehru was, after all, human like the rest of us. In the international world, Mr. Nehru, in a period of great tension, played a leading role as a statesman, in the best sense of the word. Under his leadership, India assumed the pre-eminent place in the councils of the world which she has enjoyed ever since. He could be relied on to raise his voice in strong support of peace, of common sense, of decency and of international co-operation. He was one of those statesmen of deep and firm conviction, whose service to his own country was combined and enhanced by his service to the international community as a whole. In the United Nations, Mr. Nehru was known as a great internationalist, and as one of the most eloquent exponents and one of the most authoritative interpreters of the theory of non-alignment. Everyone remembers the speech he made at the United Nations General Assembly in November 1961, shortly after I had assumed my present responsibilities. He said then:

(more) - 3 - Press Release SG/SM/691 11 April 1967

"More and more we live under a kind of regime of terror. Terror of what? Terror of some kind of catastrophe like war descending upon us? Some kind of disaster when nuclear weapons are used and the future of the world's survival is imperilled. The choice today before the world is a choice of self-extinction or survival. Many people think and talk about escaping the disaster of a nuclear war by burrowing into the earth and living like rats in a hole. Surely it's a strange commentary on our times that we should be driven to this conclusion instead of diverting all of our energies and all of. our strength to the prevention of the catastrophe." "The essential thing about this,vorld is co-operation and, even today, between countries that are opposed to each other in the political or other field there is a vast amount of co-operation. Little is known, or little is said, about this co-operation that is going on, but a great deal is said about every point of conflict, and so the world is full of this idea that the conflicts go en and we live on the verge of disaster.

PerhapSL it, would be a truer picture if the co-operating elements of the world today were put forward and we were made to think that,the world depends, upon co-operation and not ..conflict." And he went on to suggest that: "Perhaps this Assembly might resolve to call upon all countries of the world to devote a year, not to speeches about peace, I do not think that is much good, but to the furtherance of co-operative activities in any field, political, cultural, or whatever fields there may be, and there are thousands of fields." It was following this speech that the United Nations decided to observe the year 1965, the twentieth year in the life of the United Nations, as International Co-operation Year. Mr. Nehru did not confine himself to mere words in support of the principles of the United Nations Charter. Under his leadership India, whatever her -own difficulties might be, gave strong practical support, as she continues to do, to many United Nations programmes and efforts. In particular I must

(more) Press Release SG/SM/691 11 April 1967

mention Mr. Nehru's support of United Nations peace-keeping operations in the Middle East and in the Congo. His decision to provide a "brigade in March 1961 for the Congo operation — a. decision which was far from popular at home and was, as he knew full veil, liable to misinterpretation in some quarters abroad, -- was a turning point in the history of the United Nations Congo operation. Before I conclude, let me present a thought which has a direct bearing on the award which I have "been privileged to receive. The award is very significantly named "Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding". Although the obvious meaning of the word "Understanding" is clear to all of us, I wr-uld like to go a little more deeply into its true meaning. This word has been used time and time again as denoting an indispensable attribute for those who seek an amicable co-operation among peoples as well as among nations. A well-known writer once pointed out the nature of the "understanding" between the spider and the fly. They understand each other only too well, but do not achieve amity. Clearly a more extensive type of understanding is necessary in order to achieve the desired ends vhich we all have in mind. ,¥e should ask ourselves.what kind of understanding the world really needs in order to achieve' peace and amity among nations. One thing is clear: the understanding that we need is not simply "to know" or "to have knowledge about". It is rather "to have sympathetic acquaintance and to establish communication". ¥e need to differentiate between knowledge about a man or a country and the understanding that -would reveal their true nature. It is not enough to know a man or a country; it is necessary to understand them in their own terms. To foster international co-operation and human solidarity, which is one of the aims of all great religions as well as the objective of the United Nations itself, our understanding of each other must therefore include respect — respect for the person and respect for the culture or society he represents. The will to understand implies open-mindedness and sympathy. It is clear from his actions, his writings and his sayings that Mr. Jawaharlal Wehru was a prime exponent of this comprehensive kind of understanding. That is one of his many attributes which this award especially commemorates. In receiving it, I join all the people in India and in the world at large who revere his memory and are resolved to continue to work in his spirit and towards his ideals. # *** * SECRETARY TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN, NEW DELHi-4. April 6, 1967.

My dear Mr. McDiarmid, Will you please refer to your d.o. letter No.AV/3 dated 21st March, 1967, enquiring about the speech of the President on 12th April when the Secretary-General of the U.N. is given the Nehru Award ? The President usually speaks extempore. However, he has briefly jotted down certain points, which I am enclosing for the use of the Secretary-General. I hope you will find this adequate in the circumstances.

Yours sincerely,

Mr. John McDiarmid, Resident Representative,^^ United Nations Development Programme, 21 Curzon Road, New Delhi-1. >> ,

COWKLDENTIAL NOT FOR PUBLICATION

We are all happy that U Thant is selected for the first Nehru Award for international understanding. His outstanding -work in this direction as Secretary General of the United Nations has inspired confidence. All these years he has been engaged in a passionate quest for peace and his selection for the award has evoked universal acclaim. Nehru wrote on September 3, 1936 to Sheila Grant Duff a letter in which he said, 'I do not want war even for the sake of Indian freedom or perhaps it should be more correct to say that I do not look forward to any real freedom for India as a result of devastating conflict all over the world. It is all complicated. We are forced to look deeper down and examine the roots of the evil and try to remove them, avoiding, as far as we can, the destruction of the good that we have.1 In other words, the deeper causes of war are our igrmrence and misunderstanding of one another. The Roman playwright Terence Jsut it in the mouth of one of his characters: "I am a human being, so there is nothing human* that is hot my concern." The avoidance of war is the main concern of all mankind. Ffeace is the harmonising of men in their differences; it is giving battle to distrust and prejudice. This is the meaning of international understanding. The use of force in settling these differences is not only bad morals but is bad policy as well. There is a certain duplicity in human nature which makes us do things even when we recognize them to be wrong. When Pontius Pilate pronounced Jesus innocent and yet handed him over, he did what we all do. People, who in their private lives are honourable and decent, are prepared for the possibility of a nuclear war, which will end in the destruction of civilization, if not of all life. Brotherhood of man requires the recognition of common purpose and human co-operation. Love must penetrate the hearts and minds of -2- people everywhere. The achievement of stable peace is a longer and more complicated process than the relatively simple one of war making. We are aware of the ceaseless efforts which U Thant has been making, in spite of obstacles and discouragements, for settling the problem of Vietnam and ending that senseless slaughter of innocent men, women and children. The scheme of cease fire in Vietnam followed by preliminary talks leading to the re-convening of the Geneva Conference, takes account of world opinion. We hope that it may be possible to implement this scheme with any small modifications, if necessary. In this fast dissolving world, it is well to remember that our security is in abiding spiritual values which we should seek to preserve with complete dedication. Self-scrutiny and international discipline are essential. It is a pleasure to present the award to this great servant of peace and understanding. .JDMTIAL

! Fo.1888-0/67

Mr. John McDiarmia, • Resident Representative, I) United Nations Development Programme, ] 21, Curzon Road, I NSW DELHI-1. I

PRESIDENT'S SECRETARIAT i Bhavan, New Delhi 4, X JAWAHARLAL NEHRU AWARD

FOR B1TJ3RMATIONAL UNDERSTANDING, 1965 U. THAMT

The first Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding rightly goes to a man who has become the articulate conscience of the United Nations, its inner voice, a man of vision with a profound understanding of the problems of the world, of quiet courage, and dedication, of steadfast devotion to the cause of peace and understanding between nations. From his early days in Pantanaw in the Irrawaddy Delta of Burma, U Thant drew his inspiration from the best in the Buddhist tradition and set high standards for himself, achieving efficiency, competence and integrity in whatever he did. With his deep interest in literature and first efforts at self-expression, he achieved a style of ease, distinction, and power with its note of passion for truth and justice. A fervent believer in Buddhism, he understood there were hundreds of millions who believed in other religions and he developed a sense of fellowship with men of different races and religions and political beliefs. With his faith in democratic ideals and in the dignity of man, he has had a firm grasp of the issues that divide the world, and. in facing them, he has drawn upon a vast reserve of physical, mental and spiritual resources. U. Thant emerged into tne larger world from a world of books and meditation, after deep studies in political theory, history, biography tnd philosophy. In his uork as headmaster and school superintendent, he showed the independence of outlook and clarity of mind for which he was to become well known. Without joining any political party, he was deeply involved in his nation's struggle for freedom and gradually achieved a record of which any public servant could be prousLi, In this calm, persevering man of the

Contd...2/- - 2 - people, members of thg United Nations found tae only person acceptable for the post of Secretary-General, without his seeking it, and he was unanimously chosen. As Secretary-General, U Thant has shown, as his distinguished predecessor, Dag Hammarskjoeld said, that notody could accept the position, knowing what it meant, except from a sense of duty. From this position of great influence in the most critical period of history, he has secured world- wide respect for his integrity of mind, sincerity of purpose, outspokenness, and impartial, not merely neutral, attitude. He has won the support, understanding, and cooperation of colleagues, the respect of representatives of member nations, and the admiration not only of the member Governments but of the peoples of the United Nations. In his utterances, marked by force of conviction and literary grace, U Thant has given powerful expression to mankind's need for undisturbed progress. While working for enlarging the areas of agreement, he has established the clear connection between social and economic development and peace and security in the world. With his belief that the basic issue is the battle for the minds of men, he has carried on a campaign for education for peace. U Thant has constantly used the prestige of his office, with ability, forthTightness and charm, for improving the moral climate of the world. In a lonely, awesome job, he has not been afraid of facing problems or of speaking when he must, never allowing the discretion imposed on him to degenerate into expediency. He has been judicious in handling his responsibilities and patient in urging nations to believe in the force of argument, instead ofthe argument of force. He has become the symbol of the unity of the United Nations. It was a unique tribute that for a second time

Contd...3/- he was the only man, out of about hundred and twenty nations represented at the United Nations who was acceptacle to everybody as 3ecretary-General. U Thant's work carries forward the vision of one world for which Jawaharlal Nehru lived and worked and his life is an example of the quality of human material on which Jawaharlal Nehru set great value. The peace- loving peoples of all countries will appreciate that the Award named after Jawaharlal Nehru goes to this chosen and proved servant of the world. T I 0

rnatJJn n. rKlrs t&

1) T

The first Jswahsirlal Sehru Award for Int«rnaticmal ng rightly goes to a man wbo h^s becoraf? the articulate? conscience of the United ?lations» Its Inner voice, a am ft of vision with a profound understanding of the problems of the world, a a:an of quiet courage artd dedication, of steadfast devotion to the cause of peace and understating between nations.

?rota bis early

A fervent believer in Buddhism, he umd«>rstooi3 and respected the fi^ct that t?sere were hun'lrwds of aillions who believed in other religions. It was therefore not difficult lor him to develop a sense of fellowship with sen of different races and religions and political beliefs* With his faitb in democratic ideals an4 in the dignity of man, lie has hefl •a firm ^rasp of the issues that divide the world, a«d in facing tbeaj he has <3r?-.wR upon a vnst reserve of phyfilc^l* meat.^1 and spiritual reeouroes.

U \Ebant emerged into the larger worla free a world „ • of books an'! mp^lt-ition, after dee-T' Ptu-IIep in politicrl theory, hi.8tory, biography an-1 philosophy. In his work as he*^1maater a.nd school superintendent, he sh-we^ the independence of outlook and clarity of ailn

As Secretary-General* 0 fbaat ha»fc&awr j that could accept the position, knowing what It aaant» ex® apt fro® a sense of duty. Fro as this positioa at great i»flii«mc» i« one of the most critical periods of history* he has secured world-wide respect for his integrity of sdtidf sincerity of purpose, outspokenness, aad impartial attitude. $© has won the support » understanding an<3 cooperatlott of eolleftgueft* the respect of representatives of m&tabfer n at lone » ani ttte a^jalra* tion not only of th« taember Sovernnsemts feut al^o of tbe people® of the United Nations. In his utteranosa* marked by force of conviction and literary grace, U Than* has given powerful expression to mao- kiao's need for undisturbed peace and progress.' While* working for enlarging tho areas of agronament* he has ^statsliehefl clear qonnection between social and economic development peace art

moral climate of tb« worlcl. Is a JL«n«l^f av«»om« Job» toe fe&a not b*en afraid of facing problems or of apeakiaa wh^n he must, never allowing tJs© diaeretien i»pose4 on him to degenerate into expediency. He has b«en judicious in teis res^oasibilitiea «nd pati^at in urging natio»s tc ia th« force of ar^wmeat,' instead of the argument of He has beoome tbe symbol of the ideals of tb<» United It was a fitting tribute to the admirable msmsejr1 In which fen performed his onerous f«»ctiana tb&t tajp a aeeoa*! tlm« he was unanimously elected as Secretary -General from among the one hundred and twsnety one nations repreaente4 at the

0 fha»t*s work carries foirwar^ tb* ?iei&n of for which ^awaharlel Sehru lived an 4 worked a«d his life id em exaaple of the quality of htimet^ material on wbicb Jf&wftfearlal Sebru »»t great value. fh& p«&oe-ioving f«»ple» of all countries will appreciate that the Award named after Jawaharlal He>hru goes to this chosen and proved servant of tbe world* BY AIR MAIL

Secretary March 21, 1967

Dear U Thant, Many thanks for your kind letter of 1 October 1966 which has just arrived. It is a matter of deep satisfaction and joy for us that you have found it possible to come to Hew Delhi in the second week of April to receive the first Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding in person. We are all greatly looking forward t® your visit. With kind regards,

Yours sincerely.

(inam Rahman)

His Excellency U Thant Secretary-General United Nations 3 East 64th Street Hew York (U.S.A) OYN/amV cc: Mr. Lemieux(incom.^5/' PermRep

for your k&j& l£&t&r

His Excellency Br. 3- RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN, NEW DELHI-4. January 2, 1967

Dear U Thant, Thank you for remembering me and sending me your greetings of the season and good wishes for the New Year. I appreciate your kind thought with which Mrs.Thant has associated herself. We expect to receive you here early in April for the Nehru Award. Wish you and Mrs.Thant the best in the New Year.

Yours sincerely,

. (S.Radhakrishnan) His Excellency U Thant, Secretary General, United Nations, New York, NY CUBA) MEMyNDUM from: ALEXANDER GABRIEL To; H.::. Secretary Genera' U Thant

I wish to express my real joy , t^.ou^h belatedly, on hearing the news that you have been ^honored wiih the Nehru award.

Sally and I sent! you our warmest regards and I^est wishes for whatever future you may choose.

•ande.r (la'jriel

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October 1966

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September 28, 1966 Cornpiited [3 - Acknowledged /

Yours sincerely,

(inam Rahman) Secretary to the Jury

His Excellency U Thant Secretary General United Nations Organization New York (U.S.A)

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Dear Brv Candau, Thaitk you very muck for yorar fcind telegram of 29 September 1966 concerals^ tbe conferring upon IBS of t!ie He&rm Award* I have no aeed to tell you liow Batch I o%re to your otm co-operation and encovEpageiaenfc in ay for peace. With v&ym personal ragarcls,

Youra sincerely,

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Dear The Secretary-General has asked me to acknowledge your kind letter to him dated S8 September? with which you transmitted the text of a telegram addressed to the Secretary-General by the Director-General of UHSC0* The Secretary-General would be grateful if you could transmit the following message to K&P, Malleus 1tl eua most grateful for your kind message of congratulations regarding jay choice to receive the first Jawaharlal Henna Award for promoting international understanding, I am also deeply appreciative of your kind »entimeats« U Sfith kind regards, Yours sincerely j,

g.V* Harasimhan Chef de CaMnet

Mr, A:. Salsamendi IJeputy Director of the IJU^SGO Hew York Office Boom 22£& United Nations Headquarters Hew York cc: Mr. Lemieux Mr. JTarasimhan UNITED NATIONS EDUCATIONAL, ORGANISATION DES NATIONS UNIES SCIENTIFIC AND CULTURAL ORGANIZATION POUR L'EDUCATJON, LA SCIENCE ET LA CULTURE

NEW YORK OFFICE BUREAU DE NEW YORK

28 September 1966

Sir, • '•; .- '. -• .-• , ... ,• • - '-. I have the honour to transmit to you.the"following text of a cable which has just been received fram, $y. Headquarters:

"EYE AM DELIGHTED TO LEARN THAT THE FIRST JAWAHARLAL NEHRU

AWARD FOR PROMOTING BITERHATZONAL UNDERSTANDING IS TO BE GRANTED

TO YOU STOP PLEASE ACCEPT MY WARMEST CONGRATULATIONS WITH WHICH ALL

MI COLLEAGUES IN THE SECRETARIAT WISH TO BE ASSOCIATED ON THIS WELL

MERITED RECOGNITION OF YOUR GREAT SERVICES TO MANKIND AND TO THE

CAUSE OF PEA'GE_ RENE MAHEU"

I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, /L

U Thattt Secretary-General of the United Nations

ROOM 2201 - UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK 17, N. Y. Phone: PLaza 4-1234 Cables: UNESCORG NEW YORK CVH/nt

29 September 1966

Excellency,

I acknowledge isl'th mich gratitude your letter of 2? Septew&er informing me that the Jury established for the Jswaharlal HeJara Awaard for laternatiosaal iDaderstaadlrtg has declared me to be the first recipient of the I asi deeply appreciative of this honour you are already aware of the public statement I have issued OB the subject. I shall "be grateful if you could coavey my appreciation to the appropriate quarters , As you are aware* .It- is difficult for me to leave Sew York while the IBweaty-first Session of the Assembly is sjeeting. I very much hope that ^je able to visit IMia early ia tfee Sew year and tliat I may be allowed to receive t&e a-arard at that tisse. In this regart I shall be ia touch, with your Permanent Representative in Hew TorM,to agree upon a date that say be Mutually convenient.

Accept} Excellency # the aas\irances of Hiy highest coasideratioa ,

Sxeelleacty Mr. Sardar Swarau S"is@h Minister for Extern! Affairs Mission of India to the Eattoas 5 East 6kth Street Werw

cc - Mr. Lemieux NEW YORK TIMES. Wednesday, 28 September

With'foNehr* Award4? Special to The New York Times ;•'•:• NEW DELHI, Sept. 27^-' tl Thant, Secretary General of the United Nations, has been ,Awarded the Jawaharlal. Neh- ru Award for International Understanding for 1965; it was announced today. Vice President Zakir Husain said Mr. Thant was' the first to receive the award, which was. 'instituted last year by the Government in memory of India's first Prime: : . Minister, who died in 1964. ; The award carries a cash prize of 100,000 rupees ($13,- 300). Mr. Husain said: .Mr. Thant, j,w.0ul(l)-be invited to. V

PYSO 56 NEWDELHI 230 28f

PRESS 1 v CMNIPKESS NEWYORK* UNDIC 163 HO FROM STAJDUHAR. MORNING PAPERS INDIAN EXPRESS TIMES OF INDIA AND PATRIOT CARRY FORNTPAGE NEWS OF PRESENTING OF NEHRU PEACE PRIZE TO SECGEN AND GIVE COMPLETE TEXT OF - ' ' ' ANNOUNCEMENT. PATRIOT HEADS NEWS WITH FIVE COLUMN BANNER HEADLINE QUOTE AWARD FOR HELPING SUBQUOTE*

INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING UNSUBQUOTE. NEHRU PRIZE FOR TKANT UNQUOTE. TIMES OF INDIAN UNDER REGULAR COLUMN QUOTE CURRENT TOPICS QUNQUOTE SAYS QUOTE UTHANT RICHLY DESERVES AWARD WHICH HAS BEEN GIVEN HIM FOR 1965. FEW HAVE WORKED AS TIRELESSLY AND WITH SUCH DEDICATION IN THE CAUSE OF WORLD PEACE*

TRUE MEASURE OF UTHANTS ACHIEVEMENT IS THAT DESPITE THESE HI SETBACKS WHICH WOULD HAVE DISCOURAGED, PERHAPS EVEN BROKEN AYE WEAKER MAN, HE HAS MAINTEAINED UNATIONS POSITION AS CONSCIENCE OF MANKIND. UTHANT MAY BE CALLE LIVING EMBODI* WENT OF NONALIGNMENT AS NEHRU CONCEIVED ITc HE IS IMPARTIAL T0=»

AYE FAULT AND SCRUPULOUSLY FAIR. BOTH EAST AND WEST TRUST HIM FULLY, BOTH ARE EXTREMELY RELUCTANT TO SEE HIM LEAVE. TIS ONLY FITTING THAT ONE WHO HAS MADE WON ALIGNMENT BEDROCK OF HIS ACTIONS SHOULD RECEIVE AWARD COMMEMORATING THE ! ARCHITECT OF NQN ALIGNMENT UNQUOTE. ALL INDIA RADIO INCLUDED*

THIS NEWS IN SEVERAL BROADCASTS YESTERDAY. IN TODAY MORNING

BROADCAST IT SAID QUOTE UNATIONS SECGEN UTHANT HAS SAID 'Jl THAT HE WAS HIGHLY HONOURED TO RECEIVE AWARD UNQUOTE- QMNIPRESS +

COL NITED NATIONS Press Services Office of Public Information United Nations, H.Y. (FOR USE OF INFORMATION MEDIA — NOT AW OFFICIAL RECORD)

Press Release SG/SM/573/Rev.l 27 September 1966

TSKT OF STATEMENT BY SECRETARY-GENERAL, U THANT, REGARDING- JAWAHARLAL NEHRU AWARD FOR IITERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING

Following is the text of a statement by the Secretary-General, U Thant, on being chosen for the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding:

"1 have been highly honoured to learn that the distinguished members of the jury of the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding have decided to bestow on me the first award established in memory of one of the great statesmen of this century. I had the highest respect and esteem for the late Prime Minister of India, whom I had the opportunity to meet many times, at Colombo, Bandung, and Belgrade, on my visits to India, and on the occasion of his visits to Burma and the United Nations. I deem it, therefore, a signal honour to be chosen to receive the first award established in his memory. "I am particularly appreciative of the fact that the award is given 'for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, good will and friendship among peoples of the world'. "In deciding to accept the award, I have taken into account that nominations for it were made by representatives of Governments, Members of the United Nations and by outstanding personalities in the field of international relations. "The late Prime Minister was devoted to children and young people. I feel, therefore, that it would be fitting and proper for me to donate the prize money to the Development Fund of the United Nations International School." AIBIIB FOE

• »*«*

P"" ' I M tens*

Mia as t

I' s»

AT StCT tlS ALSO to or 'to eittc CVN/amw

13 September 1966

Dear Miss Miller, I acknowledge, on behalf of the Secretary-General, a letter to him dated 7 September* Quite a number of people have written to us, informing us that they have nominated U Thant for the Nehru Award. The Secretary-General is grateful to you for your kind words of appreciation of his work for peace, good will and friendship among peoples. With kindest regards,

Yours sincerely,

C.V. Narasirahaa Chef de Cabinet

Kiss Frieda S. Miller Goffeetown, R.D. 4 Easton, Pennsylvania 18042 topd

15 Aagust

Sir, I have the honow to ackoowlefige receipt of your letter Ho. NHtRfl)/5G2/3/66 aa.tea 3.0 August by which. you incited any attention to tiie JaiE&arl&l Hefaru A'jjard for lat^matiomJ. UMerstanding instituted fry the Government of India. la this Goanexioas I vould like to send you a eoj^ of a letter lahiefci I teve already sent to Mr. Rataaaa oa 13 July 1966* I hope tbat the fcta&d I faave taken in 2 of that letter tfiH be Accept, Sir, the assurances «f sgr Mghest

His Mr. G* Mbassadear Sxtraordlaaapsr aiai Eejsreseiitative of ladia t0 the 3 E^st ^ttb Street 10021

: Mr. IJemieux i- 1

PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF INDIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS 3 EAST 64TH STREET NEW YORK 21, N. Y.

No: NY(PMI)/302/3/66

Excellency, I have the honour to invite your attention to the Jawaharlal Nehru Award For International Understanding instituted by the Government of India to be given every year from 1966 onwards as a tribute to the memory of the late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and to his dedication to the cause of world peace and international understanding. 2. The Award will be given for outstanding contribution to the promotion of international understanding, goodwill and friendship among peoples of the world. It will carry an amount of Rupees 100,000 in cash (convertible into foreign currency) and a citation, and is open to all persons regardless of nationality, race, creed or sex, but not an association, institution or organization. 3. The Award will be made by the Jury, appointed by the Government of India for this purpose. The Jury consists of seven eminent Indians including the Vice-President of India and the Chief Justice of India who will be permanent ex-officio Members. The other five Members are: i) One Chief Justice of a State High Court; ii) One Vice-Chancellor of an Indian University; iii) One person representing the Press of India; iv) Two eminent persons from public life in India. 4. Following are the present Members of the Jury, who, apart from the two permanent ex-officio Members, will hold office for a period of three years: i) The Vice-President of India, ii) The Chief Justice of India, iii) Mr. Justice Vashistha Bhargava, Chief Justice, Allahabad High Court, iv) Dr. D. S. Reddi, Vice-Chancellor, Osmania University, v) Mr. M. Chalapathi Rau, Editor, National Herald. Lucknow, vi) Mrs. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, Member of Parliament, and vii) Mr. N. A. Palkhivala, Director, Tata Industries.

... 2) PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF INDIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS 3 EAST S4TH STREET NEW YORK 21, N. Y.

-2-

5. The Award is to be administered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Azad Bhavan, Indraprastha Road, New Delhi - 1, India.

6. To be considered for the Award, it would ordinarily be necessary for a person to be recommended in writing by an eminent personality as indicated in Chapter IV of the Code of Procedure, a copy of which is enclosed. 7. The last date for the proposals for the 1965 Award to be considered is August 31, 1966. The Jury will come to a decision by September, 1966 and the selected candidate will be invited to New Delhi to receive the Award in person on the late Prime Minister Nehru's birthday anniversary on November 14, 1966. 8. I shall be grateful for any name that your Excellency might deem fit to suggest for the Award. Accept-, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

(G. Parthasarathi) Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

His Excellency U Thant Secretary General The United Nations New York. CW/mpfl

Dear I acknowledge with jaueli appreciation your kind letter of 20 Jxma informing £se of ths decision of the Govarrmsent of India. to institute a Jami£a3*lal Kehru Award to be given for outs •banding contribution to the promotion of intGrmticml understanding, goodwill and fs?iendsMp anong ITSOIJIOS of t3ae trarld. I oui very glad to 1-tnov tMt the Gowarasasafc of India, has decided to carsKS2ora,-fce in this rsrmsr the dedication of the 3Lite Priias Minister or Judia to the ideals of paa.ee aad iaten^iAtiORiU. wii2.erst:aidias ^.uid to tlie r^rincipl^s aM purposes ol* tlie Uaited latioiis Cliartsr. I an also gmteful to you for inviting ms to sorud sjr for tlie first Avaaid, «hich wmlii be giyeii for the jao5 1965. ray rositloa as Sees^efcuy-Ganoral of the United fetioas 1 feel thw.t it tsjuld not be proper far EQ to ssafag staali a jjropos^l. I hops tlxit the siesibsra of tha Jvirjr vi3JL 'oadsretand £$-- difficulties in this

Dace iSrg^in? I vK>nM like to convey ngr best vishes to you ;?or e auecsss of this Wifcli Tours si

U T

Mr, Jason Ratoiaii to tlsa al Ifehru Ayard for Intem^tica^l c/o Indian Council for Cultural Halations Bbs^an, B&3M 1

cc: Mr. lamieux