Why in News? 

Vinod Kumar Shukla has been selected for the 59th Jnanpith Award, which is recognized as the highest literary award in India. 

About Jnanpith Award 

• The Jnanpith Award has been presented annually since 1965 by Bharatiya Jnanpith for outstanding contributions to Indian literature. 
• Bharatiya Jnanpith, founded in 1944, is among India's premier literary organizations. 
• It is awarded to Indian writers for the best creative literary work in any of the 22 languages recognized by the Constitution of India. 
• Since 2013, English-language works have also been included in the eligibility criteria. 
• Only Indian citizens are eligible for this award.