21 May 2026, Rome: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has honoured India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the prestigious Agricola Medal, the organisation’s highest recognition, for his contribution towards strengthening agriculture, food security, rural development and poverty reduction. The award was presented by FAO Director-General QU Dongyu during a ceremony held at FAO headquarters in Rome on May 20, 2026.
Presenting the award, Qu Dongyu praised Prime Minister Modi’s long-standing commitment to improving the wellbeing of people and advancing India’s agricultural sector through farmer-focused policies and large-scale development initiatives. He said the recognition reflects India’s contribution towards enhancing food security, improving farmers’ livelihoods and supporting the global fight against hunger and poverty.
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The FAO Director-General highlighted several flagship programmes implemented under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, including financial inclusion initiatives, the food-based social safety net supporting nearly 800 million people since the COVID-19 pandemic, and direct income support provided to more than 110 million farmers. He also acknowledged India’s efforts in promoting regenerative and natural farming practices and its role in advancing nutrient-rich millets globally through the International Year of Millets 2023 organised in partnership with FAO.
Qu Dongyu further appreciated India’s emphasis on digital public infrastructure during its G20 Presidency, calling it a significant initiative for enabling developing countries to access digital technologies for efficient delivery of services and community empowerment. He noted that India’s sustained efforts have contributed to lifting millions of people out of poverty.
Accepting the honour, Prime Minister Modi said the award belonged to millions of hardworking smallholder farmers across India, as well as the country’s scientific and research community for their contribution to national and global food security.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged FAO’s role in supporting global agriculture and food security over the last eight decades and described the India-FAO partnership as an important force in India’s agricultural progress. He said the collaboration between India and FAO has remained mutually beneficial, with India continuing to contribute actively to the organisation’s mission.
Prime Minister Modi paid tribute to Binay Ranjan Sen, the first FAO Director-General from a developing country, and M. S. Swaminathan for their contribution to global agriculture and food systems.
He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with FAO and appreciated the leadership of Qu Dongyu in transforming the organisation into a more efficient and modern institution. Prime Minister Modi praised FAO’s “Four Betters” framework focused on better production, better nutrition, better environment and a better life.
The ceremony was attended by ambassadors and representatives of FAO member countries, senior FAO officials, representatives from United Nations agencies including the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the World Food Programme, along with Indian nationals serving in UN institutions.
The Agricola Medal is awarded by FAO to global leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment towards eradicating hunger, reducing poverty, and strengthening food security and nutrition worldwide.
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