PM Modi Receives Bhutan's Highest Civilian Award 'Order Of The Druk Gyalpo'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude for being awarded the prestigious Order of the Druk Gyalpo in Thimphu, Bhutan.

The prestigious 'Order of the Druk Gyalpo' Award has been conferred upon only four distinguished individuals since its establishment.

Among the previous recipients are Queen Grandmother of Bhutan Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck in 2008; Je Thrizur Tenzin Dendup (68th Je Khenpo of Bhutan) in 2008 and Je Khenpo Trulku Ngawang Jigme Choedra in 2018. The Je Khenpo is the chief Abbot of the central monastic body of Bhutan.

Expressing his gratitude, Prime Minister Modi stated, "Honoured to be conferred with the 'Order of the Druk Gyalpo' Award by Bhutan. I dedicate it to 140 crore Indians."

The announcement of this honor was made by the King of Bhutan during the 114th National Day celebrations on December 17, 2021. During his two-day State visit, Prime Minister Modi received the award, marking his third visit to Bhutan since assuming office in 2014.

According to a statement from the Indian Embassy in 2021, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo is a decoration for lifetime achievement and holds the highest position in Bhutan's honor system, superseding all other orders, decorations, and medals.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Bhutan was initially scheduled for Thursday but was postponed due to inclement weather conditions at Paro International Airport. He expressed his gratitude to the Bhutanese people for their warm welcome and hoped for further strengthening of the India-Bhutan friendship.