On April 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana, Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honour for foreign Heads of State and Government, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo. The award recognizes PM Modi’s significant contributions to strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations and symbolizes deep friendship between the two nations.
PM Modi expressed gratitude, calling it an honour for all 140 crore Indians, and highlighted the shared spiritual and cultural heritage of both countries. The medal’s design features symbols such as the Dharma Chakra and Pun Kalasa, reflecting their Buddhist legacy and prosperity.
This marks Modi’s 22nd international recognition, reinforcing his image as a global statesman. During the visit, both leaders also launched bilateral projects like the Sampur Solar Power Project and signed MoUs in energy, digital transformation, and trilateral cooperation (including the UAE). India’s aid to Sri Lanka now totals around $7 billion, including grants and investments exceeding $2 billion.
