A Landmark Honour from Mauritius
PM Modi Receives Mauritius’ Highest Civilian Honour: A Milestone in India-Mauritius Relations: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean, the highest civilian award of Mauritius. The prestigious honour was presented by Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, marking a significant moment in India-Mauritius diplomatic history. Modi is the first Indian recipient of this honour, underlining his role in deepening ties with island nations in the Indian Ocean region.
What the Award Represents
The Grand Commander is not just a medal—it is a symbol of mutual respect and long-standing friendship. The honour has only been awarded to five foreign dignitaries since Mauritius became a republic, with names like Nelson Mandela among the list. The award acknowledges Modi’s strategic initiatives and consistent diplomatic engagement that have strengthened cooperation in areas like education, health, defence, and trade between the two countries.
Modi’s Growing List of International Awards
This accolade from Mauritius adds to Prime Minister Modi’s 21 international recognitions—a testament to his global outreach and foreign policy leadership. Some of the other prestigious honours include:
- Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud (Saudi Arabia, 2016)
- Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan Award (Afghanistan, 2016)
- Order of Zayed (UAE, 2019)
- Order of the Nile (Egypt, 2023)
- Order of the Druk Gyalpo (Bhutan, 2024)
- Dominica Award of Honour (Dominica, 2024)
These recognitions highlight how India’s global standing has improved under his leadership, especially among strategic and developing nations.
A Shared Past and Strategic Future
India and Mauritius share a deep-rooted historical connection. During the 19th century, Indian indentured labourers settled in Mauritius, laying the foundation for a strong cultural and demographic bond. Today, over 68% of Mauritius’ population is of Indian origin. This cultural tie has evolved into a strategic partnership, with India being one of Mauritius’ largest trading partners and collaborators in maritime security, education, and capacity-building.
The honour reflects not just gratitude but also a shared vision for regional stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT FOR EXAMS
PM Modi Receives Mauritius’ Highest Civilian Honour: A Milestone in India-Mauritius Relations:
| Topic | Fact |
| Name of Honour | Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean |
| Country | Mauritius |
| Year Awarded to Modi | 2025 |
| First Indian Recipient | Yes |
| Other Notable Recipient | Nelson Mandela |
| Presented By | Mauritius PM Navinchandra Ramgoolam |
| India–Mauritius Relations Started | 19th-century indentured labour migration |
| India’s Trade Role | One of Mauritius’ largest trading partners |
| Other Recent Awards to Modi | Order of the Druk Gyalpo (Bhutan), Order of the Nile (Egypt), Dominica Award of Honour |
