PM Narendra Modi Receives Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Honour, Mithra Vibhushana:

During his official visit to Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Mithra Vibhushana, the island nation’s highest civilian honour, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The ceremony was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo on Saturday.

“It is an honour for me to be awarded the Sri Lanka Mithra Vibhushana by President Dissanayake. It is also an honour for 1.4 billion Indians,” said PM Modi after receiving the distinction.

About the Mithra Vibhushana Award

Instituted in February 2008 by then-President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Mithra Vibhushana is awarded exclusively to foreign heads of state and government who have significantly contributed to enhancing Sri Lanka’s diplomatic and friendly ties.

The award comprises:

A silver medal worn around the neck

Nine types of Sri Lankan gems

Symbols including the lotus, globe, sun and moon, and sheaves of rice

Symbolism Behind the Award Design

The Dharma Chakra symbolizes the shared Buddhist heritage between India and Sri Lanka.

The Pun Kalasa or ceremonial pot stands for prosperity and renewal.

The Navarathna or nine gems are embedded within a globe encircled by lotus petals, signifying harmony, wealth, and unity.

Notable Past Recipients

Former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom

Late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat

PM Modi’s Regional Diplomacy

Prime Minister Modi reached Colombo on Friday evening, following his trip to Bangkok, where he participated in the BIMSTEC Summit 2025. His Sri Lanka visit underscores India’s focus on strengthening regional partnerships and cultural diplomacy.