• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been bestowed with ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ award in recognition of his “strategic leadership” and “valuable assistance” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, received the award on behalf of Prime Minister Modi at a ceremony held in Bridgetown, Barbados.

• The award announcement was made by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley during a meeting with Prime Minister Modi on November 20, 2024, on the sidelines of the 2nd India-CARICOM Leaders’ Summit in Georgetown, Guyana.

• Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1966, India and Barbados have fostered a robust partnership characterised by continuous engagement and development initiatives.

• The ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ is one of the highest honors conferred by the Government of Barbados.

• It recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to global cooperation, leadership, and humanitarian efforts.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)