Since assuming office as Prime Minister of India in 2014, Narendra Modi has not only steered India through economic, environmental, and social reforms, but has also emerged as a significant figure on the global stage. His leadership has been recognised internationally through numerous prestigious awards, underscoring his role in fostering peace, promoting humanitarian aid, and enhancing India’s stature in global diplomacy.
Over the course of his tenure, PM Modi has been honoured with an impressive tally of over 20 international awards, many of which are the highest civilian honours in various countries. This recognition highlights his personal influence and India’s growing role in international politics and humanitarian efforts.
A few noteworthy honours include:-
* In 2024, Dominica President Sylvanie Burton conferred PM Modi with the Dominica National Award of Honour for his statesmanship, support to Dominica during the Covid-19 pandemic, and his commitment to strengthening India and Dominica ties.
* Order of the Nile (2023), Egypt’s highest state honor, was conferred upon Modi in recognition of his efforts in strengthening the diplomatic ties between Egypt and India, focusing on peace and cooperation.
* Order of St. Andrew the Apostle was awarded to Modi by Russia in 2024. This is a testament to Modi’s role in fortifying India-Russia relations, with the award acknowledging his contribution to global peace and strategic partnerships.
* In 2024, Bhutan bestowed the Order of the Dragon King upon Modi, making him the first non-Bhutanese recipient, for his contributions to the growth of India-Bhutan relations and for promoting peace in the region.
* In 2023, France’s highest order, Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, was conferred upon Modi for his leadership in global environmental initiatives and his contributions to international peace and cooperation.
* The Order of Honour was awarded to Modi by the President of Greece in 2023. This honor recognises Modi’s efforts in promoting global economic growth and diplomatic relations.
* In 2023, the Companion of the Order of Fiji, reflecting his global leadership, was also awarded to Modi.
* Ebakl Award, a cultural honour from Palau, awarded to Modi in 2023, symbolises leadership and wisdom, reflecting Modi’s humanitarian approach in international relations.
* In 2019, the UAE’s highest civilian award, Order of Zayed, was given for Modi’s role in enhancing bilateral ties and his humanitarian efforts, notably during crises like the Covid-19 pandemic.
* The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance was awarded to Modi by Bahrain in 2019. The award recognises PM Modi’s contributions to peace and development in the Middle East, emphasising his role in humanitarian aid.
* The Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin was awarded by the Maldives, highlighting Modi’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation.
* PM Modi was the first Indian to receive South Korea’s Seoul Peace Prize in 2018, given for his contribution to international cooperation and fostering global economic growth.
* The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation also conferred the Global Goalkeeper Award on Modi in 2019 for the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
* The Champions of the Earth Award by the UN Environment Programme was awarded to Modi in 2018 for his leadership in championing the International Solar Alliance, aimed at promoting clean energy for environmental sustainability.
Beyond these formal accolades, Modi’s humanitarian initiatives have played a crucial role in shaping his image as a global leader:
During the global health crisis, India under Modi’s leadership sent millions of doses of the Covid-19 vaccine to various countries, showcasing a commitment to global health equity.
Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, established by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of France Francois Hollande, not only aim at sustainable development but also at equitable energy access, thereby promoting peace through environmental security.
Modi has been proactive in providing aid during international disasters, from earthquakes to cyclones, reinforcing India’s role as a responsible global power. India’s economic policies under Modi have not only boosted its economy but have also made it a significant player in global trade, influencing international economic policies. Modi’s foreign policy has seen a pivot towards balancing relations with both Western and Eastern powers, making India a key partner in global diplomacy.
most read
Events like the International Day of Yoga, proposed by Modi and adopted by the UN, have showcased India’s soft power, promoting peace and wellness globally. These honours underscore a narrative where Modi’s humanitarian efforts are seen as pivotal in shaping a new global order where peace, cooperation, and sustainable development are prioritised.
This global recognition reflects not just Modi’s personal achievements but also the aspirations of India to be a leader in fostering a more equitable and peaceful world.
Through these awards, Modi’s legacy is being etched not just in Indian political history but in the annals of global leadership, marking a chapter where his vision for peace and development resonates on an international scale.
The writer is MP from Garhwal, Lok Sabha
