PM Modi Dedicates FAO’s Highest Honour Agricola Medal to India’s Farmers in Rome

Rome, May 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday dedicated the 2026 Agricola Medal, the highest honour of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), to the farmers, livestock keepers, fishers, agricultural scientists and workers of India after being conferred with the prestigious award in Rome.

The medal was presented by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu at the historic FAO Plenary Hall, recognising PM Modi’s contribution to food security, agricultural development and farmer welfare.

Expressing gratitude for the honour, PM Modi said he accepted the award with humility and dedicated it to India’s “food providers”. In a post on X, he wrote, “I accept the FAO’s ‘Agricola Medal’ with great humility. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the FAO for this honour. I dedicate this medal to the food providers of India.”

He said the recognition belongs to millions of people working across India’s agriculture ecosystem. “This is an honour for millions of Indian farmers, livestock keepers, fish farmers, agricultural scientists, and workers. It is also an honour to India’s unwavering commitment, at the centre of which lies human welfare, food security, and sustainable development,” he added.

During his visit to the FAO Headquarters in Rome, PM Modi also held discussions with FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu on issues related to agriculture, nutrition and global food security. The Prime Minister highlighted India’s ongoing initiatives in strengthening agricultural productivity and ensuring food availability, particularly for vulnerable populations.

He noted that the Agricola Medal reflects India’s long-standing commitment to sustainable development and the welfare of those engaged in agriculture. PM Modi said India continues to prioritise innovation, technology adoption and inclusive growth in the farming sector.

FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu congratulated the Prime Minister, stating that the honour recognised his efforts to improve farmers’ welfare through large-scale reforms and initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening food security systems. He also acknowledged India’s active role in supporting global efforts to eliminate hunger and poverty and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Qu praised India’s leadership in transforming agriculture through farmer-centric policies and technology-driven solutions. He particularly highlighted India’s emphasis on Digital Public Infrastructure during its G20 Presidency, calling it a significant step that can help developing nations improve access to digital services and enhance governance efficiency.

According to the FAO chief, India’s sustained efforts in agriculture and social welfare have contributed significantly to poverty reduction and improved livelihoods for millions of people.