Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi adds another feather to his cap with the receipt of the Dominica Award of Honour that will be coming for the Caribbean country’s top civilian honor. He received the award from Dominica President Sylvanie Burton at the India-CARICOM Summit on Wednesday.
This recognition, though not another award for PM Modi, portrays the bonding India and Dominica have cemented in recent years. This award recognizes PM Modi’s contribution to the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.
What Led to This Honour?
The award traces its history back to February 2021, at the pandemic’s peak. India provided Dominica with 70,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines as a gesture of solidarity. What makes this gesture highly impressive is that Dominica extended these vaccines to its Caribbean neighbors, amplifying the impact of India’s help. Such a move reflected not only India’s generosity but also the leadership vision of PM Modi to help other nations in times of crisis.
On behalf of his nation, Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, expressed his gratitude by stating that the award represents Dominica’s appreciation for the solidarity and support shown by PM Modi towards the Caribbean region.
Gratitude to President Sylvanie Burton of Dominica for conferring the 'Dominica Award of Honour' upon me. This honour is dedicated to my sisters and brothers of India. It is also indicative of the unbreakable bond between our nations. pic.twitter.com/Ro27fpSyr3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 20, 2024ALSO READ | India Successfully Tests Its First Indigenous Hypersonic Missile
Beyond the Pandemic
However, such recognition does not stand alone. In the area of pandemic response, Dominica further acknowledged India’s efforts under PM Modi on health care, education, information technology, and climate resilience. These are priority sectors where India has aggressively engaged in helping Dominica and other nations in the Caribbean.
The global commitment of PM Modi toward the causes of sustainable development has also not gone unnoticed, under his leadership, the country has been recognized by many institutions. For example, initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and engaging roles in climate change debates on international forums.
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A String of International Awards
On a lighter note, recognition of PM Modi’s efforts does not end with Dominica. Guyana and Barbados have also declared their intention to bestow their highest national awards on this person. With this, the total number of international awards bagged by PM Modi has risen to 19.
My Take on This
This award is a huge moment not only for PM Modi but also for the nation as a whole. It shows that India’s reputation worldwide is slowly picking up. The vaccine diplomacy done by India during the pandemic changed the dynamics in strengthening ties with the smaller nations. Still, while such awards are a great pride to one’s country, we should look forward to ensuring that the follow-ups are consistent in our international relations. Events are great, but what they lead to counts far more.
India could build on this momentum by looking to create more long-term partnerships, like scholarship programs for Caribbean students to do their studies in India, or collaborate on renewable energy projects. Such initiatives could create the kind of lasting legacy that goes beyond mere symbolic gestures.
Why This Matters for India
This recognition also boosts India’s image globally. It portrays that India is not only an emerging power but a responsible power, keen to share its resources and expertise with the world for the benefit of all. In this very volatile world that thrives on headlines discussing geopolitical tensions and economic rivalries, such accolades subtly underpin India’s soft power.
What Do You Think?
I believe gestures like these awards are a way to strengthen ties, but they also raise expectations. What more do you think India should do to maintain its positive influence globally? Share your thoughts in the comments below! You can also follow us on Social Media for regular updates on these Geopolitical events in a funny way and of course memes too!
Minutes by M31GlobalNews
