Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday received the United Nations' highest environmental honour 'Champions of The Earth Award' at a special ceremony.

The award, announced on September 26 on the sidelines of 73rd UN General Assembly in New York, presented by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said,"Modi has recognised the challenges of climate change and he understands the need of climate action. Many leaders understand climate change but Modi acts on it. The example of PM Modi's leadership is not being followed enough."

"Under PM's leadership India today has 300 million LED lights, it's remarkable," said Secretary-General of UN.

The champions are recognised for their achievements in the categories including Policy Leadership, Entrepreneurial Vision, Science and Innovation, Inspiration and Action, and Lifetime Achievement".

The 'Champions of the Earth Award' presented to six "outstanding environmental change-makers. Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were selected under the 'policy leadership' category