Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The award was presented by Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, at a ceremony in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Background of the Award

• The ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ is a prestigious recognition awarded to individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation.
• PM Modi was acknowledged for his strategic leadership and assistance during the global health crisis.
• The award was announced by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley during the India-CARICOM Leaders’ Summit in Guyana, November 2024.

About Barbados

• Location: A small island nation in the southeastern Caribbean Sea.
• Neighbors: Close to Saint Lucia (north), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (west), and Trinidad and Tobago (south).

Colonial History:

• Became an English colony in 1625.
• Remained part of the British Empire for over 400
• Gained independence on November 30, 1966.