Indian business leader Sunil Bharti Mittal has added another international distinction to his achievements. The Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises has been conferred the Chevalier de l’Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur, or Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour, by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honour is France’s highest national order of merit. The distinction recognises Mittal’s contributions to strengthening economic relations between India and France, particularly through telecommunications and digital infrastructure.

According to a company statement, the honour acknowledges his longstanding efforts to bring the business communities of the two countries closer and encourage cooperation in strategic sectors. 

The insignia will be presented at a ceremony on October 28, 2026, at the French Embassy in New Delhi.

Three Decades of India-France Partnership

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. This collaboration came during the early years of India's telecom journey and became an important part of the business leader’s enduring relationship with France.

Thierry Mathou, France’s Ambassador to India, highlighted Mittal’s role in nurturing bilateral ties over more than three decades. He noted that the business leader had demonstrated the possibilities of cooperation between French and Indian enterprises.

Today, the partnership extends beyond telecommunications. Mittal serves as Vice-Chairman of Eutelsat, the European satellite communications company, at a time when India and France are exploring greater cooperation in space and digital technologies. The recognition reflects how long-term business relationships can evolve into partnerships spanning emerging technologies and strategic infrastructure.

Mittal Expresses Gratitude

Reacting to the honour, Mittal expressed gratitude to the French Republic and President Macron. He recalled how his association with France began with Airtel’s establishment in 1992 and continues through his involvement with Eutelsat.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to deepening economic cooperation between India and France, highlighting the importance of sustained partnerships between the two nations.

A Growing List of Global Honours

The French distinction adds to an impressive list of recognitions received by Mittal. In 2007, the Government of India conferred the Padma Bhushan on him, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.

In 2024, he became the first Indian citizen to receive an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE), awarded by King Charles III.

His latest recognition from France highlights the international impact of his business journey and the growing connections between Indian enterprises and global technology leaders.

As cooperation in telecommunications, satellite communications and digital infrastructure continues to expand, Mittal’s honour celebrates not only his professional achievements but also his contribution to building lasting economic ties between India and France.