Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with Russia’s most prestigious civilian honour, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle. President of Russia Vladimir Putin presented it to Mr Modi on Tuesday. The award recognizes Prime Minister Modi’s distinguished contribution to developing a privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and fostering friendly ties between the two countries. The award was established in 1698 by Tsar Peter the Great in honor of Saint Andrew, the first apostle and patron saint of Russia.