PM Modi to Receive Russia’s Highest Civilian Honour for “Outstanding Service”

In a momentous event that underscores the robust ties between India and Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be ceremoniously presented with Russia's highest civilian honour, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called. This prestigious award, bestowed upon Modi in 2019, will be formally handed over at St Catherine’s Hall of the Moscow Kremlin, recognizing his significant contributions to the development of a privileged strategic partnership between the two nations.

The Order of St Andrew the Apostle, established in 1698 by Tsar Peter the Great, is awarded for the most outstanding civilian or military service. Named in honour of Saint Andrew, the first apostle of Jesus and the patron saint of Russia, it represents a profound acknowledgment of Modi’s efforts in fostering closer India-Russia relations.

The Russian Embassy in India had previously highlighted this honour on April 12, 2019, through a tweet: “On April 12, @narendramodi was decorated with the Order of St Andrew the Apostle for exceptional services in promoting special & privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and friendly relations between the Russian and Indian peoples.” President Vladimir Putin also praised Modi's achievements, stating on social media, “Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of St Andrew for outstanding achievements in promoting partnership with Russia.”

In his response, Modi expressed deep gratitude and emphasized the enduring and promising nature of India-Russia friendship. “Honoured to receive this prestigious award. I thank President Putin and the people of Russia. The foundations of India-Russia friendship are deep & the future of our partnership is bright. Extensive cooperation between our nations has led to extraordinary outcomes for our citizens,” he said.

This visit to Russia, marking Modi's presence at the 22nd India-Russia annual summit, is a pivotal moment to further strengthen bilateral ties. During his two-day stay, Modi will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, paying homage to Russia's historical sacrifices and reflecting the deep mutual respect between the two countries.

Modi's previous visits to Russia, including his 2019 trip to the far eastern port of Vladivostok and his meeting with Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Uzbekistan in September 2022, have consistently reinforced the strategic partnership. This ceremonial presentation of the Order of St Andrew the Apostle signifies not only a recognition of past efforts but also a commitment to a future of collaborative growth and shared success between India and Russia.