New York, Sep 25 - An Indian journalist and activist Ruchira Gupta has been awarded the Third Annual Clinton Global Citizen Award for her work against human trafficking in four Indian states.

Former president Bill Clinton presented the award to Gupta, president of the organisation Apne Aap Women Worldwide, during the Fifth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) here Thursday.

The award recognises remarkable individuals for their leadership in improving the lives of people around the globe.

'Gupta's heroic efforts to assist and empower women make her a global leader,' Clinton said.

'Her talents as a journalist and activist have led her to make a lasting change in the social and governmental arenas. Her determination, creativity and strong leadership serve as an inspiration to all of us.'

'With the Global Citizen Awards, we highlight individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to humanity.' He said that each one of this year's winners is a model of service.

'Their innovation, dedication and determination have changed lives, and their actions serve as models for what each of us can do to make a difference in the world,' the former president said.