Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', Seychelles' highest presidential distinction for leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development, during his visit to the island nation.
Receiving the honour, PM Modi dedicated the award to all nations working collectively to tackle the growing challenges of climate change.
"I humbly accept this title with honor and dedicate it to all other countries that are struggling against the challenges of climate change and that consider the protection of the environment their responsibility toward future generations," the Prime Minister said on X.
He added, “I extend my gratitude to the people and government of Seychelles, as well as to President Herminie, for bestowing upon me the title ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon.’"
{{/usCountry}}He added, “I extend my gratitude to the people and government of Seychelles, as well as to President Herminie, for bestowing upon me the title ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon.’"
{{/usCountry}}"This is an urgent challenge that we need to overcome together. The sun, in its way, stands ready to do whatever is necessary to make the world greener and more sustainable. This is reflected in our various domestic policies, with the motto of the LiFe Mission (a vision for a sustainable future) and global efforts such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and others," PM Modi wrote.
PM Modi's list of environmental awards
The latest recognition adds to a series of international honours acknowledging the PM's contributions to sustainability and inclusive development.
In May, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) awarded PM Modi the Agricola Medal for his efforts to strengthen food security, modernise agriculture and promote sustainable farming practices.
Earlier, in 2018, he was awarded the Seoul Peace Prize for his contribution to sustainable economic growth, international cooperation and inclusive development.
In the same year, the United Nations honoured him with the prestigious Champions of the Earth Award, the organisation's highest environmental recognition, in acknowledgment of his leadership in promoting climate action and environmental protection.
PM Modi in Seychelles
Earlier on Sunday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the State House, where the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. The discussions focused on further strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two countries across key sectors.
PM Modi is visiting Seychelles at the invitation of President Herminie on a three-day visit. On Monday, he will attend the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour. During the visit, he is also scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.
India and Seychelles share deep-rooted historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. As a key maritime partner in the Indian Ocean Region, Seychelles occupies an important place in India's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
UPI introduced in Seychelles
The two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the island nation. Announcing the initiative after bilateral talks, PM Modi said India would share its successful Digital Public Infrastructure model with Seychelles, describing technology as a key enabler of stronger bilateral ties.
"Digital technology is an effective medium to bridge the distance between our two countries. We will share India's successful experience in Digital Public Infrastructure with Seychelles, and I am pleased that an MoU has been signed today to implement UPI in Seychelles," the Prime Minister said.