The institution’s press office states that the organization’s highest award was delivered to Modi in ceremony at FAO headquarters, where Qu highlighted the Indian prime minister’s support for agri-food systems and rural development.

He underscored, “The Agricola Medal is a recognition of his unwavering support for the FAO’s mandate in the fight against hunger and poverty, and for the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”

The FAO chief added that the award also recognizes “his efforts to prioritize agri-food systems and rural development on the international agenda, even during India’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency.”

Qu highlighted, in particular, projects related to financial inclusion, the creation of the world’s largest food safety net, which has benefited 800 million people since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, and direct income support for more than 110 million farmers.

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