Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the prestigious Agricola Medal from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at its headquarters in Rome. The award is considered one of the highest recognitions given by the FAO for outstanding contributions towards food security, sustainable agriculture and rural development.
The medal was presented by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu during PM Modi’s visit to Italy. The recognition highlighted India’s increasing role in global agricultural reforms and food sustainability initiatives.
The FAO honoured PM Modi for India’s efforts in ensuring food security for millions of citizens through various agricultural and welfare schemes. Over the last decade, India has implemented several farmer-centric programmes including PM-KISAN, promotion of organic farming, digital agriculture and crop insurance schemes.
The organisation also appreciated India’s efforts in maintaining one of the world’s largest food distribution systems and promoting nutrition security among vulnerable populations. The recognition further acknowledged India’s contribution to global food supply chains, especially during difficult periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the ceremony, PM Modi emphasised that India is moving towards climate-resilient and technology-driven agriculture. He highlighted initiatives such as “Per Drop More Crop,” micro-irrigation, precision farming and the use of Artificial Intelligence in agriculture.
The Prime Minister stated that India has developed nearly 3,000 climate-resilient crop varieties over the last decade. These innovations are helping farmers deal with changing climatic conditions and improving agricultural productivity. The government’s emphasis on reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers and promoting biodiversity also received global appreciation.
India’s promotion of millets through the International Year of Millets 2023 was also praised by the FAO. The initiative helped bring global attention to nutritious and climate-friendly crops.
PM Modi dedicated the award to Indian farmers, agricultural scientists, livestock rearers and workers associated with the agriculture sector. He described food security not merely as a policy issue but as a responsibility towards humanity.
The visit was also historically significant because PM Modi became the first Indian Head of Government to visit the FAO headquarters in nearly 30 years.
This development is highly important for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, State PCS and Defence examinations because international awards, United Nations organisations and agriculture-related schemes are frequently asked in current affairs sections.
Questions may be framed regarding:
The award reflects India’s growing influence in international agricultural policy and food security discussions. It demonstrates how India is becoming a leading voice among developing countries on issues related to hunger eradication, rural development and sustainable farming.
The recognition also strengthens India’s diplomatic image globally and highlights the success of its agricultural reforms and welfare schemes. Aspirants should understand how agriculture is connected with economic development, climate change and international cooperation.
The news is directly linked to several important government programmes including:
Understanding these schemes helps students prepare for descriptive answers, essays and interviews in civil services examinations.
The Food and Agriculture Organization was established in 1945 as a specialised agency of the United Nations. Its headquarters is located in Rome. The organisation works towards eliminating hunger, improving nutrition and promoting sustainable agriculture worldwide.
India has been an active member of the FAO since its formation and has collaborated on multiple programmes related to food security, fisheries, forestry and rural development.
The Agricola Medal is among the highest honours awarded by the FAO Director-General. It recognises global leaders and individuals who have made exceptional contributions towards agricultural transformation, food security and poverty reduction.
Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had also received the honour earlier, making Narendra Modi one of the few Indian leaders to be recognised with this prestigious award.
Since the Green Revolution of the 1960s led by scientists such as M. S. Swaminathan, India has transformed from a food-deficit country into one of the world’s largest food producers.
Over time, India has expanded its focus from food production to sustainable and climate-smart agriculture. Recent efforts include promoting millets, precision farming, digital agriculture and renewable energy use in farming practices.
The FAO Agricola Medal is one of the highest honours awarded by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. It recognises exceptional contributions to agriculture, food security, rural development and sustainable farming practices globally.
PM Modi was awarded for India’s efforts in strengthening food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, supporting farmers through welfare schemes, and advancing climate-resilient agricultural practices.
The headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is located in Rome, Italy.
Major initiatives include PM-KISAN, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Digital Agriculture Mission, Millets promotion campaign, and natural farming programmes.
Millets are climate-resilient, nutritious crops that require less water and are suitable for dry regions. India promoted them globally during the International Year of Millets 2023.
Qu Dongyu is the current Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
No, it is a rare honour and is awarded selectively to global leaders and individuals who have made significant contributions to agriculture and food security.
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