Antonio Guterres, UN chief

Visiting UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday presented the world body’s highest environmental honour “Champions of the Earth’’ award to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The award was handed over to Modi in New Delhi during a function.

“The world needs bold leadership on climate action.

“I thank India for setting an example and I’m pleased to present Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Champions of the Earth award,’’ Guterres said.

Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were jointly awarded the UN’s highest environmental honour for their pioneering work in championing the International Solar Alliance and promoting new areas of cooperation on environmental action.

“This award is a recognition of those tribes, who love forests more than their lives.

“And of those fishermen, who take only that much from the sea what is required for their livelihood and of those farmers for whom cycle of seasons is same as cycle of life,’’ Modi said.

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

Guterres arrived in New Delhi on Monday for a four-day visit to India.

(Xinhua/NAN)