Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the 2026 Agricola Medal, the highest distinction of the Food and Agriculture Organisation, at a ceremony held at its headquarters in Rome on Wednesday.
Qu Dongyu, Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation, handed over the award at the FAO Plenary Hall, acknowledging PM Modi’s role in promoting food security, agricultural progress, and farmer welfare.
Qu Dongyu congratulated the Prime Minister and said the recognition reflects his sustained efforts to improve people’s lives through wide-ranging policies aimed at enhancing farm productivity and strengthening food systems. He further noted India’s support for FAO initiatives focused on tackling hunger, reducing poverty, and advancing global food security in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The FAO chief commended PM Modi’s leadership in driving changes in India’s agricultural sector through policies centred on farmers and the adoption of modern technology. He underlined the extensive reach of India’s programmes, including financial inclusion drives, food-based welfare measures benefiting nearly 800 million people since the COVID-19 pandemic, and direct income support provided to more than 110 million farmers.
Qu Dongyu acknowledged India’s efforts to encourage sustainable agricultural practices such as regenerative and natural farming methods. He also praised the country’s initiative to promote millets on the global stage through the International Year of Millets campaign, undertaken in collaboration with the FAO.
The FAO Director-General highlighted India’s focus on expanding digital public infrastructure during its G20 Presidency, calling it a significant move towards improving technological access in developing countries. He added that these continued initiatives have helped reduce poverty levels and strengthen food security frameworks.
Why the Recognition Matters
The award underscores India’s increasing role in shaping global agricultural policies and food security strategies.
PM Modi’s initiatives continue to position the country as a key player in fostering sustainable and inclusive development in the sector.
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