Ghana confers top honour on Indian Prime Minister

PM Modi Honoured in Ghana with Order of the Star: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded Ghana’s most prestigious civilian title, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, during his maiden state visit to the West African nation. The award, presented by President John Dramani Mahama, celebrates Modi’s impactful leadership and dedication to strengthening international partnerships.

Static GK fact: Ghana became the first independent nation in sub-Saharan Africa in 1957, with Kwame Nkrumah as its founding leader.

Strengthening India-Africa relations

The recognition is a tribute to India’s growing engagement with the Global South, especially in promoting development-oriented diplomacy. Modi’s efforts to promote equity, democracy, and shared growth have positioned India as a trusted partner among African nations.

Static GK tip: South-South cooperation involves collaborative efforts between developing countries to tackle common development challenges.

Key initiatives announced during the visit

The visit paved the way for several important agreements, aimed at enhancing cooperation in sectors such as education, agriculture, public health, finance, and digital infrastructure.

Educational cooperation and youth training

India has committed to increasing ITEC and ICCR scholarships for Ghanaian students. In addition, a new Skill Development Centre will be created to provide technical and vocational training for Ghana’s youth.

Agricultural collaboration

To support Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ initiative, India will offer assistance in modern farming techniques and agricultural resources, aimed at improving food production and sustainability.

Health sector partnerships

India proposed the establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to supply affordable generic medicines in Ghana. Talks were also held regarding cooperation in vaccine manufacturing and distribution.

Static GK fact: The Jan Aushadhi campaign, introduced in 2008, promotes low-cost medicine distribution through government-backed outlets.

Digital and financial connectivity

India has offered Ghana access to its Bharat UPI platform, designed to improve digital financial transactions and promote financial inclusion.

Static GK tip: Developed by NPCI, the UPI system allows instant money transfers and was launched in 2016 to support India’s digital economy.

Expanding trade relations

Both nations agreed to double the existing trade volume over the next five years. Opportunities for investment, infrastructure development, and commercial cooperation are set to increase.

A landmark diplomatic milestone

Modi’s visit is historically significant, as he is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Ghana in over 30 years. The journey not only strengthens India’s outreach to Africa but also reinforces long-standing ties based on mutual respect and democratic ideals.

Static GK fact: India and Ghana established diplomatic relations in 1957, the same year Ghana gained its independence.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

PM Modi Honoured in Ghana with Order of the Star: