New Delhi, Delhi, India: The Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust on Wednesday announced that renowned Mozambican human rights activist Graca Machel has been selected for the Indira Gandhi Peace, Disarmament and Development Prize for 2025.

The international jury, chaired by former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, recognized Machel for her exceptional contributions in the fields of education, healthcare, nutrition, economic empowerment, and humanitarian service, particularly during challenging global circumstances.

Instituted by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, the prestigious award is presented annually to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to international peace, development, and progressive global policies.

The prize carries a cash award of Rs 1 crore, along with a trophy and a citation. In its official statement, the Trust described Machel as a distinguished African stateswoman and humanitarian who has devoted her life to advancing self-governance and safeguarding human rights.

Graca Machel was married to Mozambique’s first President Samora Moises Machel, who died in 1986. She later married former South African President Nelson Mandela. Born on October 17, 1945, Machel pursued higher education in Germany after receiving a scholarship to study at the University of Lisbon.