Trinidad and Tobago’s Top Civilian Award Awarded to Modi

On July 4, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean nation’s highest civilian honor, during a two-day visit to Port of Spain. This marked the first time a foreign leader has been bestowed this prestigious award, presented by President Christine Carla Kangaloo at a ceremony at President’s House. The honor recognizes Modi’s global leadership, his engagement with the Indian diaspora, and his humanitarian efforts, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Modi, on the second leg of a five-nation diplomatic tour, dedicated the award to India’s 1.4 billion citizens, emphasizing the deep historical and cultural ties between India and Trinidad and Tobago. These ties trace back to 1845, when Indian indentured laborers arrived to work on sugar and cocoa plantations following the abolition of slavery. Today, over 35% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population is of Indian descent, forming a significant cultural bridge between the two nations.

During his visit, Modi announced that sixth-generation citizens of Indian origin in Trinidad and Tobago would be eligible for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, enabling them to live and work in India. He also highlighted the adoption of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) by Trinidad and Tobago, a first in the Caribbean, to strengthen digital finance cooperation. Discussions with Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar focused on deepening partnerships in energy, health, technology, and security.

The visit, the first by an Indian prime minister to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999, included a vibrant welcome with Bhojpuri Chautaal performances and a community event at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva. Modi also addressed a joint session of the Trinidadian Parliament, reinforcing shared democratic values and cultural heritage. However, the decision to honor Modi sparked debate, with some local Muslim organizations, like the Anjuman Sunnat-ul-Jamaat Association, expressing concerns over his human rights record, while Indo-Trinidadian Hindu leaders celebrated the visit as a moment of pride.

This recognition marks Modi’s 25th international honor, following awards from nations like Ghana, Cyprus, and Barbados, reflecting India’s growing global influence under his leadership.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 6th, 2025

Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.