The honour acknowledged India’s efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity and sustainability under Modi’s leadership, particularly through initiatives aimed at supporting more than 110 million farmers across the country. The recognition highlighted flagship programmes including PM-KISAN, promotion of climate-resilient crops, and reforms focused on improving agricultural resilience amid global food and climate challenges.
During the event in Rome, Modi underlined India’s transition toward sustainable agricultural practices, including the promotion of natural farming methods, increased cultivation of millets, and the use of advanced digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and drones in farming operations. He stated that these measures were aimed at modernising agriculture while ensuring environmental balance and long-term food security.
The Prime Minister also referred to India’s extensive food distribution network, which provides food assistance to nearly 800 million people. He described the programme as a major pillar of the country’s food security framework during periods of economic and global uncertainty.
The Agricola Medal is regarded as one of the highest honours presented by the FAO for contributions to agriculture and food systems. The recognition also reflected India’s growing international role in addressing global agricultural and food security concerns during times of crisis.
The visit marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the FAO headquarters in nearly three decades, adding diplomatic significance to the event. While the recognition received widespread attention, economist Jayant Bhandari voiced criticism regarding aspects of the government’s agricultural and economic policies.
The award ceremony in Rome reinforced India’s expanding global influence in agriculture, sustainability, and food security, while placing renewed international focus on the country’s large-scale rural welfare and farming initiatives.
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