Victoria (Seychelles): Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday conferred the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’, Seychelles’ highest national honour for leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development. The prestigious recognition, awarded during his three-day official visit to the Indian Ocean nation, acknowledges his global efforts to combat climate change, promote sustainable development and strengthen international environmental cooperation.
Award of Guardian of the Blue Horizon received by @narendramodi in recognition of his distinguished leadership and commitment to sustainable development, climate resilience and the advancement of shared global objectives pic.twitter.com/AH2hnE8tmo
— SeychellesStateHouse (@StateHouseSey) June 28, 2026
The honour was presented by Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, who praised Prime Minister Modi’s unwavering commitment to climate resilience, environmental protection and responsible management of ocean resources. The Presidential Citation also recognised his consistent support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which remain among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The citation further highlighted the deepening India-Seychelles partnership in environmental conservation, sustainable development and the blue economy, underscoring the two countries’ shared commitment to safeguarding marine ecosystems and promoting climate-resilient growth.
Accepting the award, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to the people and government of Seychelles and dedicated the honour to nations striving to protect the environment and combat climate change.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the recognition belonged to every country working towards a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future. Describing climate change as one of humanity’s greatest challenges, he called for collective global action to preserve the planet for future generations.
Grateful to the people and Government of Seychelles as well as President Herminie for conferring upon me the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon.’
I humbly accept this honour and dedicate it to all those countries that are fighting the challenge of climate change and consider… pic.twitter.com/iI4c7BjnFq
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 28, 2026
He reaffirmed India’s commitment to sustainable development through flagship initiatives such as Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), stating that India remains committed to supporting global efforts aimed at environmental protection and climate resilience.
The latest honour adds to a growing list of international recognitions received by Prime Minister Modi for his contributions to climate action and sustainable development. In May 2026, he was awarded the FAO Agricola Medal for advancing food security and sustainable agriculture. Earlier, he received the United Nations Champions of the Earth Award in 2018 for his leadership in environmental action and the Seoul Peace Prize the same year for promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
The honour came as India and Seychelles further strengthened bilateral ties during Prime Minister Modi’s visit. Following delegation-level talks, both countries signed several agreements, including a Memorandum of Understanding on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to enhance digital financial connectivity.
Addressing the media after bilateral discussions, Prime Minister Modi said India and Seychelles had agreed to deepen economic cooperation, improve connectivity and explore new opportunities for trade, investment and industry, while building a more resilient and future-ready partnership.
