On Thursday, June 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Seychelles' highest civilian distinction, the 'Guardian of the Blue Horizon', during his state visit to the East African archipelago on the occasion of the country's 50th Independence Day celebrations.

Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie conferred the honour on Modi, highlighting his role in championing the interests of developing nations and his dedication to advancing the Blue Economy, climate action, sustainable use of marine resources, and the development goals of Small Island Developing States. This marks the first time the distinction has ever been conferred.

Modi dedicated the honour to all nations committed to environmental conservation and climate action. The award acknowledges initiatives associated with his government, including the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and the International Big Cat Alliance.

The Guardian of the Blue Horizon adds to a list of international recognitions Modi has received in recent years, which include the Agricola Medal from the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation, the Seoul Peace Prize, and the UN Champion of the Earth Award.

Seychelles described the honour as reflecting the importance it places on India's growing role as a partner in capacity building, environmental action, and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean Region.

Modi's visit to Seychelles is part of a broader diplomatic outreach to island nations in the Indian Ocean, a region India has increasingly prioritised as part of its foreign policy framework. The trip comes at a time when Small Island Developing States have been vocal about the disproportionate impact of climate change on their coastlines and economies, lending symbolic weight to the recognition.