Former President of India, Pratibha Patil was conferred Mexico’s highest civilian honour for foreigners titled ‘Orden Mexicana del Aguila Azteca‘ (order of the Aztec Eagle).

• The award was created in 1993 by the then President of Mexico, Abelardo L. Rodriguez. The Royal Eagle is Mexico’s national animal and is sacred to ancient Aztecs. It is present on the National Emblem of Mexican flag.
• It is the highest distinction which is conferred by Mexican government to foreigners for their prominent services to Mexico and to humanity and also for significant contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between Mexico and other countries.