During a ceremony on May 20, 2026, at the FAO Headquarters in Rome, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the prestigious Agricola Medal, the highest honor from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). This accolade was presented by Qu Dongyu, the FAO Director-General, in recognition of Modi's substantial contributions to enhancing food security, agricultural development, and the welfare of farmers across India.
In his address, Qu Dongyu commended Modi's unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of citizens through innovative initiatives that boost agricultural productivity. He stated, "This honor recognizes Modi’s commitment to improving the welfare of people through landmark initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, strengthening food security and improving the lives of farmers." This acknowledgment reflects the global community's appreciation of India's efforts to combat hunger and poverty.
- Support for Global Hunger Initiatives — The FAO Director-General highlighted India's significant backing for global efforts aimed at eradicating hunger and achieving universal food security.
- Transformational Agricultural Policies — Modi’s leadership in advancing farmer-centric and technology-driven initiatives was praised for transforming the agricultural landscape in India.
- Financial Inclusion Programs — The FAO noted the impact of India's food-based social safety net that has supported around 800 million people since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Promotion of Millets — Modi's push for nutrient-rich millets and regenerative farming practices was recognized as a significant contribution to global agricultural health.
The FAO chief also lauded India's emphasis on digital public infrastructure during its G20 Presidency, describing these efforts as crucial for improving access to digital technologies in developing nations. These initiatives are believed to have played a vital role in lifting millions out of poverty in India, demonstrating a holistic approach to agricultural and economic reform.
As India continues to lead in agricultural innovation and sustainability, this recognition serves as a testament to the country’s evolving role in global food security discussions. The award not only honors Modi’s leadership but also reinforces India's commitment to addressing food security challenges on a global scale.
