'Chaiwala Has Come Among You': PM Modi's Witty Remark At Rome Event Goes Viral | Watch

Last Updated:May 21, 2026, 10:50 IST

PM Modi was conferred with the prestigious Agricola Medal for 2026 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations at the FAO Headquarters in Rome.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi drew laughter and applause during an event at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome on Wednesday after making a light-hearted reference to himself as a “chaiwala" while addressing delegates ahead of International Tea Day celebrations.

Speaking at the event, PM Modi said, “As mentioned, tomorrow you are going to celebrate Tea Day. To celebrate Tea Day, a “Chai-wala" (tea seller) has come among you a day in advance! India’s tea varieties are many, and the strength of India’s tea is also great. Once again, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Director-General of the FAO. I also congratulate all of you. Thank you very much.".

International Tea Day is celebrated every year on May 21. The day was adopted by the United Nations to recognise the cultural, economic, and social importance of tea globally, as well as to support tea producers and sustainable production practices, especially in developing countries.

PM Modi Conferred With Agricola Medal For 2026

During the ceremony, PM Modi was conferred with the prestigious Agricola Medal for 2026 by the FAO in recognition of India’s contribution towards food security, sustainable agriculture and global welfare initiatives. Accepting the honour, the Prime Minister dedicated the award to India’s farmers and agricultural scientific community.

He said the recognition reflected India’s unwavering commitment to human welfare, nutrition and sustainable development. “This honour belongs to every farmer of India and to our agricultural scientists who work tirelessly to ensure food security not only for Indians but also for people around the world," he said.

Emphasising the importance of agriculture in Indian society, PM Modi described farming as more than an economic activity. “In India, we say ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’. When a farmer sows a seed, he doesn’t just grow a crop; he sows faith for the coming generations," he remarked.

News world 'Chaiwala Has Come Among You': PM Modi's Witty Remark At Rome Event Goes Viral | Watch

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