Sunil Bharti Mittal to Receive France’s Highest Civilian Honor on October 28

Bharti Enterprises founder and chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal has been named a Knight (Chevalier) of France’s National Order of the Legion of Honour, the country’s highest civilian distinction, on 28th October, 2026. The honour was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron. Bharti Enterprises shared the news in a statement on 12th October, 2026.

Why Is Sunil Bharti Mittal Honored With France’s Highest Civilian Honour?

The award recognises his role in strengthening economic ties between India and France, and his achievements in telecommunications and digital infrastructure.

1. His association with France began in 1992, when the French company Compagnie Générale des Eaux partnered with Bharti to bring mobile telephony to India.
2. He is Co-Chairman of Eutelsat, the Paris-headquartered satellite communications company.
3. Bharti Space Limited holds a 17.88% stake in the Eutelsat Group and is its largest private shareholder.

French Ambassador Thierry Mathou said Mittal has nurtured business ties between the two countries for over three decades and helped advance cooperation in space and digital technology.

What Is France’s Legion of Honour Award?

The Legion of Honour (Légion d’honneur) is the highest honour of France. Napoleon Bonaparte created it on May 19, 1802, when he was First Consul of France. It rewards distinguished service in civil and military careers, and it honours individual merit regardless of a person’s social or professional standing. It is given to both French citizens and foreigners who have served France well.

The order has five classes:

1. Chevalier (Knight), the lowest class
2. Officier (Officer)
3. Commandeur (Commander)
4. Grand Officier (Grand Officer)
5. Grand-Croix (Grand Cross), the highest class

Mittal has received the rank of Chevalier.

Other Awards Received by Sunil Bharti Mittal

1. Padma Bhushan (2007): One of India’s highest civilian awards, given for his contribution to business and the economy.
2. Honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire, KBE (2024): Conferred by King Charles III. Bharti Enterprises says he is the first Indian citizen to receive this honour.
3. Legion of Honour, France (2026): Given for improving economic and technological cooperation between India and France.