Bhutan King honours PM Modi with country's highest civilian award

New Delhi, Mar 22: The King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck personally bestowed the prestigious ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo’ upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring the gratitude and admiration of the Bhutanese people towards PM Modi’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to strengthening the ties between Bhutan and India.

PM Modi became the first foreign individual to receive this prestigious recognition.

The award was acknowledged in December 2021 but presented personally today by the King to PM Modi at a ceremony.

The ceremony served as a tangible expression of gratitude and respect for PM Modi's generosity and spirit.

Meanwhile, PM Modi in his message on X said, “Honoured to be conferred with the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo” Award by Bhutan. I dedicate it to 140 crore Indians.”

King Wangchuck in a speech during the award ceremony expressed heartfelt appreciation to PM Modi for his instrumental role in aiding Bhutan during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasising India's timely provision of vaccines which significantly contributed to Bhutan's successful management of the crisis.

Counting PM Modi's leadership qualities, the King cited India’s economic growth under his stewardship, positioning it as one of the world's fastest-growing economies and poised to become the third-largest by 2030.

“His commitment to environmental conservation and investment in renewable energy has not only propelled India's progress but also earned global acclaim for its holistic approach to development,” he said.

King Wangchuck said that PM Modi's visionary leadership had not only transformed India into a dynamic hub of technology and innovation but also solidified its moral authority and global influence on the world stage.

“His ‘neighbourhood first’ policy has strengthened regional cooperation, exemplified by India's steadfast support for Bhutan's national aspirations towards self-reliance and development,” he said.

The King said the ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo’ to PM Modi symbolises not only his achievements and contributions to the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan but also acknowledges India's ascent as a global power under his guidance.

“It reaffirms the special bond shared between the two nations, rooted in decades of mutual respect and cooperation,” he said.