PM Modi receives UN Champions of the Earth Award

Modi has been selected in the leadership category for his pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and for his unprecedented pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic in India by 2022.

The annual ‘Champions of the Earth’ prize is awarded to outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector whose actions have had a positive impact on the environment.

Speaking on the occasion, Modi said: "Climate and calamity have a direct relationship with culture. Till the time climate does not become the focus of our culture, it would be tough for us to prevent ourselves from calamity.

"The world now acknowledges India's sympathy towards environment but it was a part of our lifestyle for thousand years."

The award was announced on Sept 26, on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly at New York City.

Speaking at the event, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said: "Prime Minister Narendra modi getting the United Nations ‘Champions of the Earth Award’ is a fitting recognition of his leadership towards making our world a cleaner place. He was firm that the agreement in Paris has to stay and the world must come together."

Presenting the award to Modi, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said: "We are recognising a statesman who embodies true leadership.

"In Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have a leader who realises the issue of climate change and understands the benefits of climate action. He knows the problems and also works to solve them."

Modi is among seven individuals or organisations who have received the particular award.

French President Emmanuel Macron has also been named as one of the award winners this year.

Image: twitter.com/BJP4India