- The Russian government has decided to confer its highest civilian award, the “Order of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First,” on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indian PM will receive the award in appreciation of his contribution to the development of a strong strategic partnership between Russia and India and friendly ties between the Russian and Indian peoples.
- The Order of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First is awarded to prominent government and public figures, prominent representatives of science, culture, art and various sectors of the economy for their great contribution to Russia.
- It was first awarded by former Russian Tsar ‘Peter the Great’ in 1698. It was abolished under the Soviet Union but re-established in 1998 erstwhile President Boris Yeltsin.
- Earlier in April, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had awarded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Zayed Medal, the highest civilian award granted by its government. He was awarded as a mark of appreciation for his efforts to boost bilateral ties between India and UAE.
