PM Modi receives FAO’s highest honour- Agricola Medal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was conferred with the 2026 Agricola Medal by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at its headquarters in Rome in recognition of his leadership in advancing food security, sustainable agriculture and rural development. The award was presented by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu during a ceremony held at the organisation’s headquarters. It is awarded to distinguished world leaders and individuals for exceptional and long-term contributions to global food security, sustainable agriculture, poverty reduction and improved nutrition.

Deeply honoured to confer the prestigious @FAO Agricola Medal to HE Prime Minister @narendramodi of India, recognizing his visionary leadership & landmark achievements in transforming agrifood systems, strengthening global food security & improving farmers’ livelihoods. #4Betters pic.twitter.com/F03fzxIQUU

— FAO Director-General QU Dongyu (@FAODG) May 20, 2026

Receiving the honour, Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to Indian farmers and the country’s agricultural scientific community for their contribution towards ensuring food security and nutrition in India and globally.  He said the recognition reflected India’s commitment to human welfare, sustainable development and global food security. Highlighting the importance of agriculture in India’s social and cultural life, PM Modi described farming as a sacred bond between Mother Earth and the people of India. Modi said India is building a sustainable, climate-resilient and future-ready farming ecosystem, while scientific agriculture is being promoted across the country in mission mode. He noted that technology is becoming a major strength of Indian agriculture and emphasised that the future of farming lies not just in producing more, but in producing better.
PM Modi’s visit to the FAO headquarters marked the first visit by an Indian Head of Government to the organisation in the last 30 years. According to External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, the honour is a testament to PM Modi’s commitment to making our agriculture sector inclusive, resilient, sustainable and prosperous. It also recognises efforts of our farmers, livestock breeders, fishermen and agri scientists towards ensuring food security of India and the world.