New Delhi [India], May 21 (ANI): Former Director and Principal Economist at the National Centre for Agricultural Economics and Policy Research, Ramesh Chand, on Thursday said the conferment of the FAO Agricola Medal on Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflects India's achievements in agriculture, food security and poverty reduction.

Speaking to ANI, Chand said the award is a recognition of India's policy initiatives and long-term progress in the agriculture sector.

'I would say it is a recognition of the achievements of India and various policy initiatives taken by PM Modi during his tenure of 12 years as Prime Minister of this country,' he said.

He added that such honours are typically given to leaders for significant contributions in advancing agriculture, food systems and eliminating hunger.

'If you look at the past, this award is given to people for extraordinary achievement as a leader in taking the country toward some great achievement in the areas of agriculture, food, poverty reduction, and eradication of hunger,' Chand said.

He further noted that the recognition is a matter of pride for India.

'So getting c, that a United Nations Organisation has recognised the contribution of our Prime Minister, mainly in the area of agriculture, food, and food security,' he added.

Prime Minister Modi was conferred the FAO Agricola Medal on Wednesday at a ceremony held at the Food and Agriculture Organisation headquarters in Rome by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu.

The Prime Minister said he dedicated the honour to India's farmers, livestock rearers, fisheries workers, scientists and innovators, calling them the backbone of the country's food security system.

The Agricola Medal is one of the FAO's highest honours, awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to global food and agriculture systems.

PM Modi received the award during the final leg of his five-nation tour, which included visits to the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. (ANI)