Thomas was given the award for her outstanding contribution for making India self-reliant in the field of missile technology.
The award, given annually for excellence in public administration, academics and management, carries a Rs five lakh purse, a plaque and a citation.
Mukherjee said Thomas, through her dynamism, has made the country proud and self reliant in the sphere of security.
He underlined that India neither had the intention of aggression nor to further any commercial interest at the cost of others.
Thomas said she was extremely humbled and honoured to receive the award. (more) PTI
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