'Guardian of the Blue Horizon': PM Modi receives Seychelles' highest environmental honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday was conferred the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', Seychelles' highest presidential distinction for leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development, during his three-day visit to the island nation.

Accepting the honour, Modi dedicated the award to countries working together to address the challenges posed by climate change and reaffirmed India's commitment to global environmental action.

"I humbly accept this title with honor and dedicate it to all other countries that are struggling against the challenges of climate change and that consider the protection of the environment their responsibility toward future generations," the Prime Minister said on X.

He added, “I extend my gratitude to the people and government of Seychelles, as well as to President Herminie, for bestowing upon me the title ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon.’"

Highlighting India's sustainability initiatives, Modi said climate change requires collective action from the global community.

"This is an urgent challenge that we need to overcome together. The sun, in its way, stands ready to do whatever is necessary to make the world greener and more sustainable. This is reflected in our various domestic policies, with the motto of the LiFe Mission (a vision for a sustainable future) and global efforts such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and others," PM Modi wrote.

Part of a growing list of global honours

The recognition adds to a growing list of international honours received by the Prime Minister for his contributions to sustainable development and environmental protection. In May this year, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) awarded Modi the Agricola Medal for his efforts to strengthen food security, modernise agriculture and promote sustainable farming practices.

Earlier, in 2018, Modi received the Seoul Peace Prize for his contribution to sustainable economic growth, international cooperation and inclusive development. The same year, he was also honoured with the United Nations' Champions of the Earth Award, the organisation's highest environmental recognition, for his leadership in promoting climate action.

Earlier in the day, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the State House, where the two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. The discussions focused on further strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two countries across key sectors.

Modi is visiting Seychelles at the invitation of President Herminie. On Monday, he will attend the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour. During the visit, he is also scheduled to address the National Assembly of Seychelles and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.

India and Seychelles share longstanding historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. Seychelles is a key maritime partner for India in the Indian Ocean Region and occupies an important place in New Delhi's Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).