PM Modi Honoured in Ghana with ‘Order of the Star’

In a historic diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with Ghana’s highest civilian award, the “Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, during his landmark visit to the country. The honour, bestowed by President John Dramani Mahama, recognizes PM Modi’s global statesmanship, commitment to South-South cooperation, and his role in elevating India-Ghana bilateral ties. The Indian Prime Minister dedicated the award to India’s youth, its diverse cultural legacy, and the shared democratic values between the two nations.

Why in News?

PM Modi received Ghana’s top civilian honour on July 3, 2025, during his first state visit to Ghana. The honour celebrates his leadership and strengthens diplomatic engagement between India and Ghana, especially in sectors like trade, healthcare, education, and digital connectivity.

About the Honour

• Name of the Award: Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana
• Conferred by: President John Dramani Mahama
• Reason: In recognition of PM Modi’s distinguished global leadership, diplomatic outreach, and efforts to build South-South cooperation.

Key Agreements & Announcements

During the joint press conference in Accra, the two leaders unveiled a range of strategic initiatives to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Education & Youth Development

• Doubling of ITEC and ICCR scholarships for Ghanaian students
• Establishment of a Skill Development Centre in Ghana to offer vocational education and training for youth

Agriculture & Food Security

• India pledged support to Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ programme, sharing expertise and resources to boost agricultural productivity

Healthcare

• Proposal to set up Jan Aushadhi Kendras in Ghana, providing affordable generic medicines
• Discussions on vaccine production cooperation

Digital & Financial Integration

• India to offer its Bharat UPI digital payment platform to Ghana, enhancing financial inclusion and digital public infrastructure

Trade Relations

• Agreement to double bilateral trade volume in the next five years through new business and investment avenues

Significance of the Visit

• First Indian PM to visit Ghana in over 30 years.
• Reinforces India’s strategic outreach to Africa and the Global South.
• Builds upon historical bonds initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru and Kwame Nkrumah.
• Deepens cooperation based on shared democratic ideals and mutual development goals.