Devi Shetty conferred with France’s National Order of Merit

Devi Shetty (left), founder and chairman of Narayana Health, and Marc Lamy (right), Consul General of France in Bengaluru, being conferred the Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite in Bengaluru on Wednesday.

The Government of France has conferred the Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite (Knight of the National Order of Merit) on Devi Shetty, founder and chairman of Narayana Health, in recognition of his support to the French community in Bengaluru during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The honour was presented by Marc Lamy, Consul General of France in Bengaluru, at a ceremony held at Narayana Health City on Wednesday.

Dr. Shetty was recognised for extending vaccination and logistical support to the French Consulate and the wider French community during the pandemic, demonstrating solidarity at a time of unprecedented challenges.

“We are delighted to recognise Dr. Devi Shetty for his generosity and unwavering support to the French community in Bengaluru during the pandemic. His actions reflect the true spirit of solidarity and the enduring friendship between France and India,” Mr. Lamy said.

Accepting the honour, Dr. Shetty said he was grateful to the French government and acknowledged the contribution of Narayana Health’s teams in extending assistance during the pandemic.

“During the pandemic, we were happy to extend our support to the French community in Bengaluru. It was a difficult time for everyone, and standing together and helping one another was what mattered most,” he said.

Established in 1963 by French President Charles de Gaulle, the Ordre national du Mérite is France’s second-highest national distinction after the Legion of Honour. It recognises distinguished service by French and foreign nationals in civilian and military fields.

The ceremony was attended by members of the French Consulate, the Narayana Health board and management, and the French community.