Jain Monk Acharya Lokesh Receives US Presidential Award for Peace Efforts
India-West News Desk
WASHINGTON, DC – Jain Acharya Lokesh, the founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati and the World Peace Center, was given the prestigious American Presidential Award at Capitol Hill here, becoming the first Indian monk to receive such recognition.
Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA), presiding over the ceremony, presented Acharya Lokesh with the Presidential Award, Golden Shield, Certificate of Honor, and a citation bearing the signature of President Biden. Congressman Sherman read aloud the citation, which commended Acharya Lokesh for his remarkable humanitarian contributions.
In his signed citation, President Biden praised Acharya Lokesh’s unwavering commitment to public service, stating, “I congratulate you for your contribution to the public good and congratulate you for your service to this great nation and humanity.” President Biden emphasized the urgency of Acharya Lokesh’s work, noting, “By sharing your time and passion, you are helping to find solutions to the challenges we face. Solutions we need more than ever.”
President Biden further expressed, “We live in a moment that needs hope, light, and love. You are providing all three through your service.” He conveyed the American people’s confidence in Acharya Lokesh’s continued dedication, stating, “On behalf of the American people, I deeply commend you for your volunteer leadership and the American people have confidence that you will continue to serve humanity in the same way in the future.”
In his acceptance speech, Acharya Lokesh spoke of the immense pride he felt in receiving the American Presidential Award, remarking, “It is my honor that on the basis of these values, I have been dedicated to the interest and welfare of mankind for the last 40 years and will try to live up to everyone’s expectations in the future also.”
He emphasized the significance of the honor, viewing it as a recognition of Indian culture, spiritual values, and Jain principles. Acharya Lokesh expressed gratitude to President Biden and expressed hope for continued collaboration between India and the US, stating, “I hope that India and the US will continue to work together for the upliftment of mankind.”
The ceremony concluded with a sense of optimism and renewed determination to advance the cause of global peace and harmony, inspired by Acharya Lokesh’s exemplary leadership and commitment to humanitarian ideals.
