At the Scottish Parliament on 29 May, Neil Lal received the Gandhian Peace Society’s Man of the Decade Award. Many dignitaries, diplomats, politicians and business and community leaders from all over the world were in attendance.
On behalf of the Gandhian organisation, The Former, Chief Minister of Jersey (Channel Islands) The Honourable John Le Fondre, Ceo of Together UK Foundation, Mr Andrew Grocock presented a Gold plate to Mr Neil Lal and the Counsul General of Hungary Dr Laszlo Kalman.
The Conseller Des Francais de I’Etranger Mr Christian Albussion, along with Foysal Choudhury MSP (Event sponsor), presented a medal to Neil Lal.
All five made speeches and congratulated the achievements of Mr Neil Lal who is also the Chairman and President of The Indian Council of Scotland and the United Kingdom, the leading organisation representing the Indian community in the country.
Ash Regan MSP spoke of Neil Lal’s achievements and in attendance was Vice Consul General of India Amit Chaudhary and many businesscommunity leaders. Former Rangers Legend Gordon Smith attended and praised Neil Lal’s public service.
The Gandhian peace society is under the leadership of Chairman Anuranjan Jha.
The Prestigious honour recognises individuals who have made significant contributions in promoting peace, harmony and social justice in Scotland and across the United Kingdom.
Gandhian peace society explained: “The award is not only bestowed by the Gandhian Peace Society but also endorsed by a diverse group of stakeholders including members of public, religious leaders, politicians and global advocates of Gandhian values.
“The finalist’s included many senior politicians such as former PMs Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak and the current PM Sir Keir Starmer. Neil Lal’s selection of the award is a testament to his outstanding achievements.
“His tireless efforts in fostering interfaith dialogue, promoting cultural understanding and advocating for human rights have inspired countless individuals. Neil Lal work with the Indian community in the UK coupled with his unwavering commitment to religious harmonisation and peace building has profoundly impacted our society.
“We are particularly impressed by Neil Lal integrity, fairness and exemplary leadership. His unbiased approach to all communities, faiths and cultures has been instrumental in nation building and bringing diverse groups together. His transparency and accountability have set a high standard for others to follow.
“During the pandemic, Mr Neil Lal generous donations and efforts to bring UK Trade Investment demonstrated commitment to the welfare of the nation. His ongoing work encouraging Trade & Investment in the UK has significantly contributed to economic growth and cross cultural partnerships.
“As part of the award a presentation of £100,000.00 has been awarded to Mr Neil Lal to which he has kindly declined, and he has asked the Gandhian organisations in India to distribute amongst the poor and needy In India.
“This action by Neil Lal speaks volumes. We are honoured to recognise Neil Lal’s exceptional contributions”
Accepting the Award, Neil Lal said: “I am humbled in receiving the Man of The Decade Award and I thank everyone coming today.
“It is not right for me to accept the £100,000.00 prize award as it would be best served to be given to the poor and needy therefore I have declined the prize money.
“I thank all those who have attended including event convenor Sukhi Bains and especially the dignitaries, John Le Fondre, Andrew Grocock, Dr Laszlo Kalman, Christian Albuisson, Foysal Choudhury MSP, Ash Regan MSP, Gordon Smith and many others.
“It has been a great team effort with support from the Indian community such as Baldev Sood, Pravesh Randev, Sunil Marwaha, Sanjay Sharma, Arun Thapar and their families. Let’s all work together for the betterment of humanity.”