Modi is the first foreign head of state to receive Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the Ngadag Pel gi Khorlo, which is considered the pinnacle of the country’s honour system because it supersedes all other orders, decorations, and medals.

The award was given by Bhutan’s King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, in honour of Modi’s contribution to India-Bhutan relations and his contributions to the Bhutanese people.

Overjoyed to hear His Majesty pronounce Your Excellency Modiji’s @narendramodi name for the highest civilian decoration, Order of the Druk Gyalpo.” Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering wrote on social media.

Tshering said the king “highlighted all of Modiji’s unwavering friendship and support over the years, notably during the pandemic.”

PM Modi thanked in return and said, Thank you, Lyonchhen @PMBhutan! I am deeply touched by this warm gesture, and express my grateful thanks to His Majesty the King of Bhutan.  I have been privileged to receive the utmost love and affection from our Bhutanese brothers and sisters, and take this occasion to convey my greetings to all of them on the auspicious occasion of the National Day of Bhutan. I admire Bhutan for its unique model of sustainable development and the deeply spiritual way of life. Successive Druk Gyalpos – Their Majesties the Kings – have given a unique identity to the Kingdom, and nurtured the special bond of neighbourly friendship that our nations share.

In recent years, Modi has gained a number of international honours. Last year, he was given the Legion of Merit in the highest degree of the chief commander by the US president. The Order of St Andrew the Apostle, Russia’s highest civilian honour was honoured to him in 2019 for encouraging partnership and good relations between the two countries. Maldives and United Arab Emirates bestowed PM Modi with Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin and Zayed Medal respectively.