Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first foreign head of state to receive Bhutan's highest civilian honour.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made history by becoming the first foreign head of government to be bestowed with Bhutan’s highest civilian honor, the ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo.’ In a gracious acceptance, PM Modi dedicated this prestigious accolade to the 1.4 billion people of India, expressing deep gratitude on behalf of the nation.
During the ceremony held in Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, Prime Minister Modi humbly acknowledged the significance of the honor, attributing it not to personal achievement but to the collective spirit of India. He emphasized that such recognition underscores the shared journey of progress between Bhutan and India, reflecting the strength of their bilateral relations.
The ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo,’ instituted to honor lifetime achievements, holds paramount importance in Bhutan’s honor system, surpassing all other distinctions. With only a handful of eminent personalities having received this distinction previously, PM Modi joins a select group of individuals recognized for their exceptional contributions.
The citation accompanying the award lauds Prime Minister Modi’s exemplary leadership on national, regional, and global fronts. It highlights India’s remarkable economic growth under his stewardship, projecting it as the world’s fastest-growing economy and poised to become the third-largest by 2030.
PM Modi’s commitment to environmental conservation and renewable energy, coupled with his transformative initiatives, has earned him acclaim both domestically and internationally. Bhutan’s admiration for Modi extends beyond his accomplishments to his unwavering support for the nation’s aspirations and his pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties.
Throughout his tenure, PM Modi has championed the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, fostering cooperation and solidarity within South Asia. His visit to Bhutan signifies the enduring bond between the two nations and underscores India’s commitment to prioritize its neighbors in its foreign policy agenda.
Upon his arrival in Bhutan, PM Modi was greeted with a warm reception, including a cultural performance by Bhutanese youths showcasing the vibrant traditions of India’s Gujarat state. The display of Garba, a Gujarati folk dance, resonated with PM Modi, illustrating the deep cultural affinity between the two countries.
Interacting with members of the Indian diaspora and local communities, PM Modi received expressions of admiration and gratitude, reaffirming the strong people-to-people ties between India and Bhutan. His visit epitomizes the continued exchange of high-level engagements, underscoring India’s steadfast commitment to its neighbors and the principles of diplomacy and friendship.
Prime Minister Modi’s receipt of the ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo’ symbolizes the enduring partnership and mutual respect between India and Bhutan, laying the foundation for further collaboration and progress in the years ahead.
