Sunil Bharti Mittal To Receive France’s Legion Of Honour On October 28

Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has been conferred France’s highest civilian honour, the Chevalier de l’Ordre national de la Légion d’Honneur, by French President Emmanuel Macron. The distinction, also known as the Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour, recognises Mittal’s contributions to strengthening economic relations between India and France, along with his achievements in telecommunications and digital infrastructure. The announcement was made on October 12, 2026, with the award ceremony scheduled to take place later this month in New Delhi.

Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honour is France’s highest civilian distinction and recognises individuals for outstanding contributions across various fields. According to a statement from Bharti Enterprises, Mittal received the honour in recognition of his longstanding commitment to fostering business partnerships between the two countries. His work in expanding telecommunications services and supporting digital infrastructure development has contributed to the growth of commercial ties between Indian and French enterprises.

Mittal’s association with France dates back to 1992, when French company Compagnie Générale des Eaux partnered with Bharti to introduce mobile telephony in India. The partnership marked an early stage in the development of his telecommunications business and established a relationship that has continued for more than three decades. French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou highlighted Mittal’s role in maintaining bilateral business relations and said his work had demonstrated the potential of cooperation between French and Indian companies.

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The business relationship continues through Mittal’s involvement with Eutelsat, the European satellite communications company, where he serves as co-chairman. Bharti Enterprises has also expanded its presence in the satellite communications sector, strengthening its links with France in areas such as space technology and digital infrastructure. The French ambassador noted that these partnerships have become increasingly relevant as both countries pursue cooperation in emerging technologies and strategic industries.

Reacting to the recognition, Mittal expressed gratitude to Macron and said he remained committed to deepening economic ties between India and France. He acknowledged that his association with France began with the establishment of Airtel’s mobile services in 1992 and continues through his work with Eutelsat. The insignia is scheduled to be presented at a ceremony at the French Embassy in New Delhi on October 28, 2026.

Mittal has previously received several major honours for his contributions to business and industry. In 2007, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards. In 2024, he became the first Indian citizen to receive an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire from King Charles III. France’s latest recognition adds to his international honours and underscores his longstanding involvement in telecommunications, digital infrastructure and cross-border business cooperation.

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