‘The Order of the White Double Cross, First Class’

Why is this in the news?

Peter Pellegrini conferred Slovakia’s highest State honour, “The Order of the White Double Cross, First Class,” upon Narendra Modi during the Prime Minister’s official visit to Slovakia in June 2026.

• Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to the 1.4 billion people of India, describing it as a recognition of the strong and growing friendship between India and Slovakia.

About the Order of the White Double Cross 

• Established: 1994, after Slovakia became an independent republic.
• Conferred by: The President of Slovakia.
• Nature: It is the highest State honour of Slovakia for foreign nationals.
• Purpose: Awarded for exceptional contributions to the development of friendly relations with Slovakia, promotion of cooperation, and enhancement of Slovakia’s international standing.
• Classes: The Order has multiple classes, with the First Class being among the highest distinctions.

Source: DD