From GI-tagged mangoes to royal artefacts: PM Modi’s diplomatic gifts spark global attention

Rashmi Pandey — Thu, 21 May 2026 06:24:57 +0000

Narendra Modi once again used cultural diplomacy and traditional Indian craftsmanship to strengthen ties with global leaders during his recent high-level engagements, gifting symbolic artefacts and GI-tagged products reflecting India’s heritage, diversity and soft power outreach.

Among the notable diplomatic gestures, Prime Minister Modi gifted a replica of the historic ice axe used by Tenzing Norgay to Kristrún Frostadóttir. The symbolic gift represented endurance, exploration and humanity’s connection with nature, drawing attention for its historic and adventurous significance linked to Himalayan mountaineering history.

During his visit to the United Arab Emirates, Modi gifted GI-tagged Kesar mangoes to Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Known as the “Queen of Mangoes,” the Kesar variety originates from Junagadh in Gujarat and is internationally recognised for its saffron-coloured pulp, rich aroma and fibreless texture. The mango is closely associated with Gujarati hospitality and seasonal “Aamras” traditions.

The Prime Minister also presented Meghalaya pineapples to the UAE President. These GI-tagged pineapples, cultivated in the hilly terrains of Meghalaya, are known for their exceptionally high sweetness and low acidity. Agricultural experts often describe them among the finest pineapple varieties globally due to their flavour and natural cultivation conditions.

In another diplomatic gesture, Modi gifted a traditional Gond painting and the book “Convenient Action: Continuity for Change” to Victoria. The Gond artwork reflected India’s indigenous tribal artistic traditions, while the book highlighted governance and sustainability themes linked to climate action and development.

Meanwhile, the Crown Prince of the UAE received a ceremonial dagger featuring intricate Koftgari craftsmanship from Rajasthan’s Udaipur region. The art form, practiced by traditional Sikligar metal artisans, involves embedding delicate gold and silver wire patterns into steel surfaces, making it one of India’s rare heritage metalwork traditions.

Key Highlights:

Replica of Tenzing Norgay’s ice axe gifted to Iceland PM Kristrún Frostadóttir
GI-tagged Kesar mangoes from Gujarat presented to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Meghalaya’s famous GI-tagged pineapples showcased as part of India’s agricultural diplomacy
Gond tribal painting and sustainability-themed book gifted to Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria
Traditional Koftgari ceremonial dagger from Rajasthan presented to UAE Crown Prince
Gifts reflected India’s focus on heritage, craftsmanship, sustainability and regional diversity

India has increasingly incorporated cultural symbolism, GI-tagged products and traditional handicrafts into diplomatic exchanges under Modi’s tenure. Officials say such gifts are carefully selected to showcase India’s regional diversity, artisanal excellence and civilizational identity while strengthening bilateral relationships through cultural connection and soft diplomacy.

TenzingNorgay | Business Upturn

From GI-tagged mangoes to royal artefacts: PM Modi’s diplomatic gifts spark global attention

Key Highlights: