Prime Minister Narendra Modi achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first foreign Head of Government to receive Bhutan’s highest civilian honour, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo.
The prestigious award was bestowed upon PM Modi by the King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, during his official State visit to the country.
Expressing gratitude during the award ceremony, PM Modi remarked, “This honour is not merely a personal accolade, but recognition of the pride of Bharat and its 1.4 billion citizens. I accept this honour humbly on behalf of every Indian, extending my heartfelt gratitude to the gracious people of Bhutan.”
He further added, “Today is a very big day in my life, I have been awarded with Bhutan’s highest civilian honour. Every award is special, but when you receive an award from another country, this shows that both countries are moving on the right path. I accept this honour on behalf of every Indian and thank you for this.”
Previous recipients of the award include Royal Queen Grandmother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck in 2008; Je Thrizur Tenzin Dendup (68th Je Khenpo of Bhutan) in 2008 and Je Khenpo Trulku Ngawang Jigme Choedra in 2018. Je Khenpo is the Chief Abbot of the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan.
PM Modi arrived in Paro on a State Visit to Bhutan from March 22-23. The visit aims in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between Bharat and Bhutan and the Government’s focus on its Neighbourhood First Policy.
The Indian Premiere was warmly received by Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at Paro airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome.
