Bhutan’s King Honors Indian PM Modi with Highest National Honour

In a historic gesture symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship between Bhutan and India, the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, conferred upon Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi the prestigious Order of the Druk Gyalpo, the highest honour of the Himalayan nation. The ceremony took place on Friday during Prime Minister Modi’s two-day state visit to Bhutan.

The Order of the Druk Gyalpo stands as a testament to lifetime achievements and serves as the pinnacle of Bhutan’s honour system, superseding all other orders, decorations, and medals in the country’s protocol.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit commenced with a warm reception from the people of Bhutan, who gathered in large numbers to extend their heartfelt welcome along the 45-kilometer stretch from Paro to Thimphu. The atmosphere remained charged with enthusiasm as locals lined the streets, eagerly awaiting the Prime Minister’s arrival at the Tashichho Dzong Palace.

At the palace, Prime Minister Modi was received with a ceremonial welcome, followed by his attendance at a cultural program at the Tendrelthang Festival Ground, in the esteemed presence of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

The visit further solidifies the unique and exemplary bilateral relationship shared between India and Bhutan, which is deeply rooted in mutual trust, goodwill, and understanding. This relationship finds its cornerstone in the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation signed in 1949, with formal diplomatic ties established in 1968 and renewed in February 2007.

Throughout his visit, Prime Minister Modi is slated to partake in various programs aimed at bolstering the India-Bhutan bilateral partnership, underscoring the commitment of both nations to further strengthen their ties across multiple domains.

Additionally, the Prime Minister was greeted with a special cultural performance by Bhutanese youth, who showcased the vibrant Garba dance set to a song penned by Prime Minister Modi himself. The performance, marked by traditional attire and graceful movements, served as a testament to the enduring cultural bonds between the two nations.

The Indian diaspora and local communities of Bhutan expressed their honor and delight at meeting Prime Minister Modi, underscoring the deep-rooted people-to-people ties that form an integral part of the India-Bhutan relationship.