PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron on July 14, bestowed the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor on PM Narendra Modi. It is the highest French honour in military or civilian orders.
In the process, he is the first Indian Prime Minister to receive this award.
The Legion of Honour, established by Napoleon Bonaparte, consists of five degrees, with the Prime Minister being awarded the highest, the Grand Cross. The ribbon is red, and the badge features a five-armed Maltese asterisk on an oak and laurel wreath.
While membership is typically reserved for French nationals, foreign individuals who serve France or uphold its ideals may also receive this distinction. Approximately 300 foreign nationals are awarded this honour annually, among a total membership of over 79,000.