PM Modi receives Sweden's Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross; first Asian leader to get it
On 17 May 2026 Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden conferred the Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gothenburg, making him the first Asian leader to receive it.
Summary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the 'Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross' from Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden at a special ceremony in Gothenburg on 17 May 2026. PIB describes the order as one of Sweden's oldest and most distinguished honours, instituted in the 18th century, and as Sweden's highest honour for foreign Heads of Government. PM Modi is the first Asian leader to be conferred the award. The Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the 1.4 billion people of India and to India–Sweden friendship.
Key facts
- Award
- Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross
- Date / place
- 17 May 2026, Gothenburg
- Conferred by
- Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden
- Instituted
- 18th century
- Status
- Sweden's highest honour for foreign Heads of Government
- First
- First Asian leader to receive it
- Dedicated to
- 1.4 billion people of India
Practice MCQs 3 questions
Who conferred the Royal Order of the Polar Star, Degree Commander Grand Cross, on PM Narendra Modi on 17 May 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Crown Princess Victoria
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden conferred the award at a special ceremony in Gothenburg.
Which distinction did PM Modi achieve with the Royal Order of the Polar Star in May 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — First Asian leader to be conferred the award
PIB states that PM Modi is the first Asian leader to be conferred the award.
According to PIB, in which century was Sweden's Royal Order of the Polar Star instituted?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — 18th century
PIB describes it as one of Sweden's oldest honours, instituted in the 18th century.