NEW DELHI: The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) on Wednesday conferred upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi the Agricola Medal, its highest honor, in recognition of his government's landmark schemes to enhance agricultural productivity, bolster food security, and further farmers' welfare, alongside his overall commitment to public welfare.
Receiving the award in Rome from the specialized UN agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve food security, PM Modi stated that the honor reflects India's unwavering commitment to food security and sustainable development, and is an honor for the country's farmers and others working in the sector.
FAO Director General Lauds Modi's Leadership
FAO Director General Qu Dongyu lauded the exceptional leadership and vision of the Prime Minister in advancing India's efforts to transform its agricultural landscape through farmer-centric, innovative, and path-breaking initiatives. He also highlighted the government's financial inclusion initiatives, the world's largest food-based social safety net covering 800 million people since the Covid-19 pandemic, direct income support to more than 110 million farmers, national efforts to advance regenerative and natural farming, and global efforts to promote nutrient-rich millets, including through the International Year of Millets in partnership with FAO.
Political Implications
The honor is expected to bolster PM Modi's political standing in countering the opposition, which has accused him of crony capitalism at the expense of farmers and the working class. Since taking office in 2014, the Modi government has introduced several schemes, including annual cash assistance of Rs 6,000 for farmers and crop insurance, to support the farm sector. However, the Congress and other opposition parties have accused him of working for big corporate houses and not doing enough for farmers, citing the government's enactment of farm reform laws—later withdrawn due to protests by a section of farmers—as an example.
This recognition from the FAO underscores the global acknowledgment of India's efforts under PM Modi's leadership to ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
