PM Modi conferred with Sri Lanka's highest honour 'Mithra Vibhushana'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Sri Lanka’s highest honor for a foreign national, the 'Mithra Vibhushana' award, during a ceremony held today (April 5) at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.

The award was presented by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in recognition of the longstanding and enduring friendship between the two nations.

Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi called the honor a “great matter of pride,” emphasizing that the award belonged not just to him but to the 140 crore people of India. “This is a tribute to the historic and deep friendship between the people of India and Sri Lanka,” he said during a press conference following the ceremony. Modi also thanked the Government of Sri Lanka, President Dissanayake, and the Sri Lankan people for the recognition.

The award highlights the significance of the bilateral relationship, which has been nurtured through mutual support during challenging times. Modi recalled his previous visit to Sri Lanka in 2019 during a sensitive period, expressing his admiration for the resilience and courage of the Sri Lankan people. "Today, seeing Sri Lanka once again on the path of progress fills me with happiness," he added.

Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through various crises, including the 2019 terror attack, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent economic challenges. “In every difficult situation, India stood with Sri Lanka,” he remarked, stressing the role of India as a responsible and true neighbor.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the special place Sri Lanka holds in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. He noted the remarkable progress in bilateral cooperation in the four months since President Dissanayake's visit to India, underscoring the growing ties between the two nations.

Symbolism of the ‘Mithra Vibhushana’ Award

The ‘Mithra Vibhushana’ award, designed to reflect the deep cultural and spiritual connections between the two nations, is rich in symbolic elements. The “Dharma Chakra” represents the shared Buddhist heritage of India and Sri Lanka, while the “Pun Kalasa,” a ceremonial pot adorned with sheaves of rice, symbolizes prosperity and renewal. The inclusion of the “Navarathna” (nine precious gems) within a globe encircled by lotus petals represents the enduring friendship between the two countries. Finally, the "Sun and Moon" elements signify the timeless bond shared by the two nations, extending from ancient history into the future.

The award is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between India and Sri Lanka, based on mutual respect, shared heritage, and unwavering support.