NEW DELHI: India has faced fresh embarrassment over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s overseas honours after a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Seychelles sought clarification from the Indian High Commission over the public circulation of a draft AI-generated certificate template linked to an award for Modi.
The letter, dated June 29, 2026, and addressed to Mr Rohit Rathish at the High Commission of India in Victoria-Mahe, Seychelles, refers to the public dissemination of a draft certificate while final approval from the Office of the President of Seychelles was still pending.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs requests clarification regarding the public dissemination of the draft AI-generated certificate template shared by your office, while final approval from the Office of H.E. the President of the Republic of Seychelles was still pending,” the letter said.
It added that the circulation of an unapproved certificate in media circles had caused “avoidable embarrassment to both sides” and proposed a joint review of the circumstances to prevent any recurrence.
The letter maintained a diplomatic tone, saying Seychelles remained committed to cordial relations with India and appreciated New Delhi’s support for Small Island Developing States, including environmental conservation.
The development comes amid growing scrutiny of awards received by Modi during overseas visits. A recent report by The Guardian raised questions over several honours given to the Indian prime minister, including the “Guardian of the Blue Horizon” distinction reportedly presented in Seychelles.
The controversy deepened after social media users pointed out spelling mistakes on the certificate, while AI-detection tools flagged it as AI-generated.
Opposition voices in India have described the episode as an example of “manufactured prestige” and personality-driven diplomacy, while India’s ruling BJP has defended the award as a proud moment for India.
