Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has created history by becoming the first non-Bhutanese to receive the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’, Bhutan’s highest civilian award. He received this prestigious honour from Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during his two-day state visit to Thimphu. The ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’ is a lifetime achievement award and is considered the pinnacle of Bhutan’s honour system. Only four eminent personalities have received this award since its institution.
Historic Achievement for PM Modi
- PM Modi is the first non-Bhutanese to receive the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’
- He is also the first foreign head of government to get this prestigious award
- The honour was conferred by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck
‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’ – Bhutan’s Highest Civilian Honor
- The ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’ is a lifetime achievement award
- It is the highest civilian award in Bhutan
- It takes precedence over all other orders, decorations, and medals
- Only four eminent personalities have received it so far
Previous Recipients of the Award
- Her Majesty Royal Queen Grandmother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck (2008)
- His Holiness Je Thrizur Tenzin Dendup (68th Je Khenpo of Bhutan, 2008)
- His Holiness Je Khenpo Trulku Ngawang Jigme Choedra (2018)
- Je Khenpo is the Chief Abbot of the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan
PM Modi’s historic achievement of becoming the first non-Bhutanese to receive the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’, Bhutan’s highest civilian honour. It underscores the significance of this award, which is a lifetime achievement recognition and stands at the pinnacle of Bhutan’s honour system. Key figures like Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and previous recipients are also mentioned.