• Source:JND
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PM Modi In Bhutan:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Bhutan has been marked by three significant gestures from the Himalayan nation, ranging from a private dinner hosted by the King to the bestowal of Bhutan's highest civilian honour, making them key highlights of the trip.

In a historical first, the Indian Prime Minister was hosted at K5 Residence Lingkana Palace for the first time, signifying a major step in bilateral relations between the two countries.

Furthermore, the King of Bhutan is showing a rare honour by hosting a private dinner for Prime Minister Modi, a gesture unprecedented in the history of Indian-Bhutanese relations.

Bhutan also conferred the country's highest civilian award to PM Modi, marking a historic first for an Indian Prime Minister. Notably, he will also become the first foreign recipient of this esteemed Bhutanese honour.

According to established ranking and protocol, the 'Order of the Druk Gyalpo' was created as the highest honour in Bhutan, recognising lifetime achievements. It holds precedence over all other orders, decorations, and medals. Since its establishment, this prestigious award has been bestowed upon just four distinguished people of Bhutan.

Previous recipients of the award include Royal Queen Grandmother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck in 2008; Je Thrizur Tenzin Dendup (68th Je Khenpo of Bhutan) in 2008 and Je Khenpo Trulku Ngawang Jigme Choedra in 2018. Je Khenpo is the Chief Abbot of the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan.

In his address at Tendrelthang Festival Ground in Thimphu, PM Modi said, "Today is a big day in my life as an Indian. You have honoured me with Bhutan's highest national award. Every award is special in itself, but when an award is received from another country, it strengthens the confidence that both our countries are moving in the right direction."

"This honour is not my personal achievement. It is the honour of India and 140 crore Indians. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of all Indians in this great land of Bhutan and thank you all from the bottom of my heart for this honour," he added.

(With agency inputs)