Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the prestigious Agricola Medal 2026, the highest honour of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), at the FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy. The award was presented by FAO Director-General QDongyin recognition of India’s contribution to food security, sustainable agriculture, rural development, and farmer welfare.
Award Dedicated to Indian Farmers
While accepting the honour, PM Modi dedicated the Agricola Medal to India’s farmers, livestock rearers, fish farmers, agricultural scientists, and workers associated with the agriculture sector. He highlighted the role of technology, innovation, and sustainable farming practices in transforming Indian agriculture.
Why the Award Was Given
FAO recognised India’s major agricultural initiatives and welfare schemes aimed at:
Enhancing agricultural productivity
Strengthening food security
Promoting sustainable agriculture
Supporting rural development
Improving farmers’ income and welfare
India’s promotion of millets, digital agriculture, food distribution programmes, and climate-resilient farming were also appreciated globally.
Key Facts About Agricola Medal
Agricola Medal is one of the highest honours awarded by FAO.
It is given to individuals who make exceptional contributions to:
Global food security
Agricultural development
Nutrition improvement
Sustainable farming
The award is named after the Latin word Agricola, meaning “farmer”.
The FAO is a specialised agency of the United Nations established in 1945.
FAO Headquarters is located in Rome.
Current FAO Director-General: QDongyu.
India had earlier received similar recognition when former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was awarded the Agricola Medal in 2008.
Important Government Schemes Related to Agriculture:
Some important Indian initiatives linked to the recognition include:
PM-KISAN Scheme
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Digital Agriculture Mission
National Mission on Natural Farming
Promotion of International Year of Millets 2023
PM Matsya Sampada Yojana
UPSC - 2027 - Prelims cum Mains - Foundation Course / Batch Starts on 14-05-2026 
