Rome, May 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the FAO Agricola Medal 2026, the highest distinction from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, in a ceremony at the FAO Headquarters in Rome. In a heartfelt gesture, PM Modi dedicated the prestigious honor to India’s farmers, livestock rearers, fishers, and agricultural scientists, recognizing their tireless contributions to feeding the nation.
Prime Minister @narendramodi was conferred the @FAO Agricola Medal at a ceremony in the FAO Headquarters in Rome. He dedicated it to the hard working farmers, those involved in livestock and fisheries sectors and agriculture scientists. pic.twitter.com/38tlxXdA9J
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 20, 2026
The FAO recognized India’s transformative journey in agriculture under PM Modi’s leadership. Innovations highlighted include climate-resilient crop varieties, technology-driven precision farming, and Digital Public Infrastructure, which have strengthened the sustainability, resilience, and productivity of Indian agriculture.
By dedicating the award to India’s “Annadatas” or food providers, PM Modi underscored the central role of farmers and food workers in ensuring national and global food security. He also noted that India’s science-driven and sustainable farming approach is contributing to food security efforts across the Global South, reflecting India’s growing leadership in international agricultural development.
The Agricola Medal is awarded by the FAO Director-General to individuals and leaders who have made outstanding contributions to sustainable agriculture, global food security, poverty reduction, and nutrition improvement. PM Modi’s dedication of the award to India’s agricultural community highlights the human effort behind India’s progress in this sector.