Dhaka, May 7 (UNB) - Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Atiur Rahman on Monday received the prestigious Indira Gandhi Gold Plaque 2011 in Kolkata in recognition of his significant contributions to international cooperation towards human progress.

The award distribution ceremony was held at the Vidyasagar Hall of Asiatic Society, Kolkata in the evening, according to a message received here on Monday.

West Bengal Human Rights Commission Chairperson Justice Asok Kumar Ganguly presented the award to Dr Atiur.

Asiatic Society president Prof Pallab Sengupta and general secretary Prof Mihir Kumar Chakrabarti were also present at the function.

Expressing his reaction on receiving the award, Atiur said, “It’s a deeply moving experience to see my name added to the elite company of the very distinguished luminaries awarded with this Gold Plaque in the preceding years.” He also paid rich tributes to the soul of Indira Gandhi.  

Earlier, on March 15, the Asiatic Society of India selected Atiur Rahman for the Indira Gandhi Gold Plaque 2011. The award was introduced in 1985.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina received the Indira Gandhi Gold Plaque in 2009.

The past awardees include ex-Swedish premier Olof Palme (1985), Dr DS Kothari (1986), Nobel Laureate Mother Teresa (1987), ex-Secretary General of the United Nations Dr Javier Perez de Cuellar (1988), Dr Nelson Mandela (1989) and Rev Desmond Tutu (1990), Dr Karan Sing (1991).

The central bank governor is expected to return home on May 9.