Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’, the highest civilian honour of Sri Lanka, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at Presidential Secretariat, Colombo.
This is 22nd international award conferred on PM Modi by a foreign nation. This symbolizes India’s deepening global diplomatic ties.
About Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana
| Feature | Description |
| Meaning | “Friend of Sri Lanka Honour” |
| Instituted | In 2008, by then-President Mahinda Rajapaksa |
| Purpose | Conferred on Heads of State or Government of countries with cordial and friendly ties with Sri Lanka |
| Significance | It ranks above all other civilian awards granted by Sri Lanka, including the Sri Lanka Rathna |
| Recipients | Only 5 recipients including PM Modi, making it a rare and prestigious honour |
Design & Symbolism of the Medal:
- Citation and a Silver Medal studded with Navarathna (nine Sri Lankan gems)
- Gems arranged around a globe encircled by lotus petals: symbolizing global harmony and friendship
- Centre features a Pun Kalasa (pot with rice sheaves): symbol of prosperity and renewal
- Top has symbols of Sun and Moon: representing eternity and endurance
- Includes a Dharma Chakra: denotes shared Buddhist heritage
- Worn with a 6.5 cm wide ribbon around the neck
Notable Past Recipients:
| Year | Recipient | Country |
| 2008 | Maumoon Abdul Gayoom | Maldives (then President) |
| 2014 | Mahmoud Abbas | Palestine (then President) |
| 2014 | Yasser Arafat (Posthumously) | Palestine (former President) |
| 2024 | Narendra Modi | India (Current PM) |
Significance of Honour for India-Sri Lanka Relations:
- Reflects strong bilateral ties, rooted in civilizational, cultural, and religious connect
- Reaffirms India’s key role in regional cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and strategic partnerships
- Celebrates shared Buddhist values and efforts for regional peace and development