Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana Award

The Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana is the highest civilian honour awarded by Sri Lanka. Recently, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi received this prestigious award during his state visit to Sri Lanka. The award recognises leaders who have encourageed strong ties and solidarity with the Sri Lankan people. Modi dedicated the award to the 1.4 billion citizens of India, reflecting the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.

About the Award

The Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana was established in 2008 by then-President Mahinda Rajapaksa. It is awarded to foreign heads of state and government, acknowledging their contributions to Sri Lanka. The award ranks above other national honours, such as the Sri Lanka Rathna. It signifies the importance of international relationships and cooperation.

Award Components

The award consists of a citation and a silver medal adorned with Navarathna, which are nine precious Sri Lankan gems. The design features a globe surrounded by lotus petals, symbolising purity and enlightenment. At the centre is a Pun Kalasa, representing prosperity and renewal. The medal also includes symbols of the Sun and Moon, along with a Dharma Chakra, reflecting the shared Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka and India. The medal is worn on a 6.5 cm wide ribbon.

Significance of the Award

This honour is not merely a recognition of individual achievement. It embodies the historical and cultural connections between Sri Lanka and the awarded leaders. Modi’s receipt of the award emphasises the ongoing commitment to mutual cooperation and prosperity. The medal serves as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations of both nations.

Past Recipients

The Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana has been awarded sparingly. The first recipient was former Maldives President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 2008. He was recognised for his contributions to regional cooperation and climate change initiatives. In 2014, the award was conferred on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and posthumously on Yasser Arafat. These recipients highlight the award’s focus on strengthening diplomatic relationships.

Future of the Award

The award continues to be granted at the discretion of the Sri Lankan President. It is intended to enhance international friendships and encourage collaborative efforts in various fields. The selection process for future recipients will likely consider their contributions to peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of international awards on diplomatic relations between countries.
2. Critically discuss the significance of the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana in promoting regional cooperation.
3. Estimate the role of cultural symbols in international awards. How do they influence perceptions between nations?
4. What is the importance of bilateral relations in global politics? Analyse the factors contributing to strong diplomatic ties.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of international awards on diplomatic relations between countries.

1. International awards can strengthen bilateral ties by recognizing contributions and encouraging goodwill.
2. They serve as public acknowledgment of cooperation, enhancing mutual respect and understanding.
3. Awards can facilitate dialogue and collaboration on various issues, including trade and security.
4. Receiving an award can elevate a country’s status on the global stage, attracting investment and tourism.
5. They may also influence public perception positively, creating a favorable image of the awarded country.

2. Critically discuss the significance of the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana in promoting regional cooperation.

1. The award symbolizes the historical ties and shared cultural heritage between Sri Lanka and recipient countries.
2. It promotes diplomatic dialogue and encourages collaborative initiatives in various sectors.
3. Recognizing international leaders encourages a sense of solidarity and mutual support in regional issues.
4. The award enhances Sri Lanka’s image as a proactive player in regional diplomacy.
5. It encourages other nations to strengthen their relationships with Sri Lanka, promoting stability and peace.

3. Estimate the role of cultural symbols in international awards. How do they influence perceptions between nations?

1. Cultural symbols in awards reflect shared values and heritage, enhancing mutual understanding.
2. They can evoke positive emotions and historical connections, reinforcing diplomatic ties.
3. Symbols like the Dharma Chakra in the Mitra Vibhushana signify shared beliefs, promoting unity.
4. Such elements can influence how nations perceive each other, encouraging goodwill and respect.
5. They serve as a reminder of common aspirations, encouraging collaboration in addressing global challenges.

4. What is the importance of bilateral relations in global politics? Analyse the factors contributing to strong diplomatic ties.

1. Bilateral relations are crucial for addressing global challenges, including security and economic stability.
2. Strong diplomatic ties facilitate trade agreements, enhancing economic growth for both nations.
3. They promote cultural exchange, encouraging mutual respect and understanding among populations.
4. Factors such as historical ties, shared interests, and strategic partnerships contribute to strong relations.
5. Effective communication and regular engagement are essential for maintaining and strengthening these ties.