Sir Rotblat, the man who was part of the making of the first atom bomb in England, received the international award for promoting Gandhian values outside India. The Mahatma's old secretary, Narayan Desai was felicitated for his contribution to constructive work. Saraswati Gora's contribution to the welfare and upliftment of women and children was recognised. Dr Basu's application of science and technology for rural development was also appreciated.

All four personalities shared the dais today, remembering Mahatma Gandhi and discussing his significance in today's ``intolerant, violent world''. While Desai was tutored by the Mahatma, Gora says she was influenced byhim, professor Rotblat understands his global appeal and the Dr Basu blended science with rural development. Each awardee stressed the relevance of the Mahatma's teachings in the next century.

Remembering the days of the World Wars, Professor Rotblat said: ``As a young child during the first World War, I witnessed horrible cruelties. My abhorrence for all violence and war stems from that experience. Over the years I have realised that you cannot fight evil with evil and you should not threaten war to prevent war.''

Denouncing the American senate for not ratifying CTBT, he added that they had lost the moral authority to lead the world. ``India can take on that mantle,'' he said. ``All they have to do is reverse their nuclear policy and dismantle their nuclear arsenal.''

Talking on science and technology, Dr Basu said that it was ``the most powerful tool that helps us analyse, decide and act logically'', adding that it also helped people understand their role in the cosmos.