From US and Russia to Ghana: Here’s the list of 24 foreign honours conferred upon PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has earned wide international recognition for his diplomatic efforts and leadership. Countries across the world have honoured him with their highest civilian awards. These honours not only reflect Modi’s global standing but also signify India’s rising influence on the international stage.
Let’s take a closer look at the 24 foreign honours awarded to PM Modi between 2016 and 2025.
🌍 Honours from Africa and the Middle East
1. Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud – Saudi Arabia (2016)
This is Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honour. Modi received it for boosting bilateral ties and deepening cooperation, especially in counter-terrorism efforts.
2. State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan – Afghanistan (2016)
Afghanistan presented this award for India’s assistance in infrastructure development, including the Afghan-India Friendship Dam.
3. Grand Collar of the State of Palestine – Palestine (2018)
Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Palestine independently. The honour reflects India’s balanced Middle East diplomacy.
4. Order of Zayed – UAE (2019)
This award recognized Modi’s role in deepening India-UAE ties. It also marked the growing trust between the two nations.
5. King Hamad Order of the Renaissance – Bahrain (2019)
Bahrain honoured him for strengthening India-Bahrain relations and supporting the Indian diaspora.
6. Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen – Maldives (2019)
This is Maldives’ highest honour. Modi was recognised for enhancing security cooperation and disaster relief partnerships.
7. Order of the Nile – Egypt (2023)
During his visit to Egypt, PM Modi received this top award. It highlighted growing cooperation in trade, security, and culture.
8. Order of Mubarak the Great – Kuwait (2024)
Kuwait honoured Modi for his efforts in energy security and humanitarian outreach in the Gulf region.
9. Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana – Ghana (2025)
This recognition came for India’s contributions to education, healthcare, and trade in West Africa.
10. Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger – Nigeria (2024)
Nigeria conferred this award for strengthening diplomatic, economic, and technological collaboration with India.
🌏 Recognition in Asia and the Pacific
11. Order of the Dragon King – Bhutan (2024)
Bhutan awarded this honour for Modi’s consistent support in education, energy, and digital development.
12. Legion of Merit – United States (2020)
The US military honoured Modi for boosting defence cooperation and promoting the Indo-Pacific partnership.
13. Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu – Papua New Guinea (2023)
This award recognized his outreach to Pacific Island nations and environmental initiatives.
14. Companion of the Order of Fiji – Fiji (2023)
Fiji honoured Modi for disaster relief, COVID-19 support, and digital development aid.
15. Ebakl Award – Palau (2023)
Palau recognised India’s support for climate action and sustainable development in the Pacific.
🌎 Awards from the Caribbean
16. Order of Excellence – Guyana (2024)
Guyana acknowledged Modi’s efforts to support the Indo-Caribbean community and develop cultural ties.
17. Dominica Award of Honour – Dominica (2024)
Dominica honoured Modi for India’s health aid, especially during the pandemic.
18. Honorary Order of Freedom – Barbados (2024)
Barbados recognised his leadership in promoting South-South cooperation and trade support.
🇪🇺 Recognition from European Nations
19. Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour – France (2023)
France gave this highest civilian award during Bastille Day celebrations. It reflected Modi’s role in India–France strategic ties.
20. Grand Cross of the Order of Honour – Greece (2023)
Greece appreciated Modi’s contributions to cultural diplomacy and maritime cooperation.
21. Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III – Cyprus (2025)
This award symbolised Cyprus’s respect for Modi’s balanced global diplomacy.
🌊 Indian Ocean Region and Beyond
22. Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean – Mauritius (2025)
Mauritius honoured Modi for India’s support in infrastructure, disaster management, and digital governance.
🏆 Additional Global Recognitions
23. Global Goalkeeper Award – United States (2019)
Presented by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this award honoured Modi’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
24. Seoul Peace Prize – South Korea (2018)
South Korea awarded Modi for promoting peace, sustainable development, and economic reform.
🌐 Conclusion
Over the last decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received an unprecedented number of international honours. These 24 global awards are not only a reflection of his personal leadership but also India’s emergence as a key player on the world stage.
Each award speaks of a different aspect of diplomacy—from climate action to humanitarian aid, and from trade alliances to cultural ties. Collectively, they show how India is forging friendships and building partnerships across continents.
As the world becomes more interconnected, such recognitions affirm India’s growing influence and its commitment to shared progress.
