Daijiworld Media Network - Victoria
Victoria, Jun 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', Seychelles' highest honour for leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development, recognising his contributions to promoting green growth and climate action.
The prestigious award acknowledges PM Modi's sustained efforts to advance sustainable development, environmental protection and global initiatives aimed at addressing climate change through responsible economic growth.
The recognition adds to a growing list of international honours bestowed on the Prime Minister for his leadership in sustainability, food security and environmental stewardship.
Earlier this year, PM Modi was awarded the 2026 Agricola Medal, the highest distinction of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), during a ceremony at the organisation's headquarters in Rome. The medal was presented by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu in recognition of his contributions to food security, agricultural development and the welfare of farmers.
In 2018, the Prime Minister received the Seoul Peace Prize for promoting sustainable economic development, international cooperation and inclusive growth. The same year, he was also honoured with the United Nations Champions of the Earth Award for Policy Leadership, presented by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New Delhi.
PM Modi is currently on a three-day State visit to Seychelles, where he is participating in the island nation's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour while holding discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Earlier on Sunday, the Prime Minister held delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the State House in Victoria after being accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
On the first day of his visit, PM Modi handed over the indigenously built Fast Patrol Vessel PS LESPWAR to the Seychelles government to bolster the country's maritime surveillance capabilities and strengthen patrols within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The Prime Minister also presented six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to support Seychelles' healthcare, public services and maritime security infrastructure.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the assistance reflects India's commitment under its Vision MAHASAGAR initiative and reinforces the longstanding defence and maritime partnership between the two countries, contributing to peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
As part of the visit, PM Modi and President Herminie also planted a sapling of the rare Coco de Mer palm at the Seychelles National Botanical Garden, symbolising the two nations' shared commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The Prime Minister arrived in Seychelles on Saturday afternoon to attend the country's 50th National Day celebrations and further deepen India's strategic partnership with the Indian Ocean nation across sectors including defence, maritime security, development and environmental cooperation.