CONTEXT:

• Russia will confer the Order of St Andrew the Apostle on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• The award is being given for Mr. Modi’s exceptional services in promoting special and privileged strategic partnership between the Russian Federation and India.
• The award is Russia’s highest state decoration. 

BACKGROUND

• It is awarded by Russian Govt to prominent statesmen and public figures and representatives of science, the arts and various industries for their exceptional services in promoting the prosperity, greatness and glory of Russia.
• It is also awarded to foreign heads of states for outstanding services to Russia.
• It is established in 1698 by Tsar Peter the Great, in honour of Saint Andrew.