Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to receive widespread international recognition in 2025, with multiple civilian honours from countries across regions underscoring India’s expanding global influence and strengthened diplomatic relationships.
By the end of 2025, the number of global honours conferred upon Prime Minister Modi rose to 29, up from 20 at the end of 2024. The latest recognition came earlier this month when Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman conferred upon him the ‘Order of Oman (First Class)’ for his exceptional contribution to India–Oman relations and visionary leadership.
Analysts note that the nine international honours awarded in 2025 reflect unprecedented global recognition of an Indian Prime Minister’s statesmanship and leadership. In March, Mauritius announced its decision to bestow its highest national honour, ‘The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean’, during Prime Minister Modi’s State Visit to Port Louis.
The honour coincided with his role as Chief Guest at Mauritius’ National Day celebrations, marking a rare second invitation in a decade. Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to the people of India and the centuries-old friendship between the two nations, with Mauritian leaders highlighting the exclusivity of the honour previously received by figures such as Nelson Mandela.
In April, Sri Lanka conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’, the highest honour awarded to foreign leaders, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister received the distinction. Sri Lankan leadership described the recognition as a reflection of his enduring contribution to bilateral friendship.
Further honours followed during a series of international engagements. Cyprus awarded Prime Minister Modi the ‘Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III’, recognising India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its approach to global peace. Ghana subsequently honoured him with the ‘Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ for strengthening the voice of the Global South.
Prime Minister Modi also became the first foreign leader to receive the highest civilian honour of Trinidad and Tobago, followed by Brazil’s ‘Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross’. Namibia conferred its highest civilian award, the ‘Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis’, symbolising resilience and enduring partnership.
Most recently, Ethiopia honoured Prime Minister Modi with the ‘Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia’ during his first bilateral visit, recognising his exceptional contribution to strengthening bilateral ties and his role as a global statesman.
Collectively, these honours highlight India’s rising stature on the world stage and reflect growing international confidence in Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and India’s diplomatic vision.
