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The Prime Minister of India was conferred The Order of the White Double Cross, First Class, the highest civilian state honour of the Slovak Republic, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening India–Slovakia bilateral relations and promoting mutual cooperation.

About the Order of the White Double Cross

The Order of the White Double Cross (Rad Bielehodvojkríža) is the highest state decoration of the Slovak Republic, awarded primarily to foreign nationals who have rendered outstanding services in strengthening relations between Slovakia and their home country, or who have significantly enhanced the international standing and interests of Slovakia.

The award was instituted on 1 March 1994, shortly after the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia (popularly known as the Velvet Divorce) in 1993, which resulted in the creation of the independent Slovak Republic.

Key Features

• The Order is divided into civil and military divisions and comprises three classes, with the First Class being the highest and most prestigious distinction.
• The decoration is conferred exclusively by the President of the Slovak Republic, generally during state visits or on the recommendation of the Slovak government.
• Its insignia prominently features the White Double Cross, the central symbol of Slovakia's national coat of arms, placed on a red enamel background and encircled by a golden laurel wreath, symbolisinghonour and achievement.

Significance

The conferment of Slovakia's highest state honour reflects the growing strategic partnership between India and Slovakia. It recognizes India's expanding engagement with Central Europe and underscores cooperation in areas such as trade, defence, technology, innovation, and multilateral diplomacy. The award also highlights the importance Slovakia attaches to strengthening bilateral ties with India.

Major State Honours Conferred on the Prime Minister of India (2026)