Uzbekistan's highest honour for PM Modi hailed as pride for all Indians
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Uzbekistan's highest state honour, the 'Oliy Darajali Do'stlik' Order, from President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent, drawing widespread praise from politicians across party lines in India. Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena, and allied parties described the recognition as a moment of national pride, not merely a personal distinction for the Prime Minister.
Political Reaction Across Party Lines
BJP leader Narottam Mishra said the honour transcended political affiliation. 'This is a matter of pride for every Indian citizen, not just for the Bharatiya Janata Party. Modi ji is a world leader and the Prime Minister of India, who has been honoured by many countries around the world. We are all proud of him,' he said.
BJP MLA Gopal Bhargava echoed the sentiment, stating the recognition belonged to the entire nation. 'It is not just for the Prime Minister, but an honour for all the people of the country, for all Indians,' he said.
Shiv Sena and Bihar Leaders Weigh In
Shiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC framed the award in civilisational terms. 'This is not just an award; it is a world salute to Bharat. Congratulations to Prime Minister Modi and 140 crore Indians. Our party, Shiv Sena, clearly believes that when you receive this kind of highest order of friendship, it is a salute to all those Indians who believe in the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister to strengthen civilizational ties and bonds with Central Asia,' she said.
Bihar Minister Mithilesh Tiwari said Modi's foreign policy had earned global respect. 'All the countries in the world are influenced by the foreign policy of respected Narendra Modi ji. Wherever Modi ji goes, he is welcomed in every country. This increases the pride of the country,' he said.
About the Uzbekistan Honour
The 'Oliy Darajali Do'stlik' Order — translating broadly as the Order of Friendship of the Highest Degree — is Uzbekistan's most prestigious state decoration. President Mirziyoyev conferred it upon Modi in Tashkent in recognition of his contribution to strengthening bilateral relations between India and Uzbekistan. The award marks a deepening of India's engagement with Central Asia, a region that has grown in strategic importance for New Delhi.
Modi's Growing List of International Honours
The Uzbekistan decoration adds to what officials describe as a record tally of foreign state honours. PM Modi has reportedly received over 30 prestigious international honours, making him the most internationally decorated Indian leader in history, spanning state decorations, scholastic awards, and environmental accolades from nations and organisations across the globe. In July, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto conferred the 'Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia' — that country's highest honour — upon the Indian Prime Minister.
This latest recognition comes as India continues to deepen its diplomatic footprint across Eurasia, with Central Asia emerging as a key corridor for connectivity and trade under New Delhi's broader foreign policy vision.