Why in the news?
The President of India presented Padma Awards for the year 2026 at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I held at Rashtrapati Bhavan recently.
About Padma Awards
- Instituted: In 1954, they are one of the highest civilian Awards of country.
- Initially, Padma Vibhushan had three classes which were renamed as Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri in 1955.
- Padma Awards are not titles under Article 18 and cannot be used with names.
- The awards recognize distinguished achievements and public service across various fields such as arts, science, literature, sports, medicine, social work, and public affairs.
- Conferred by: President in three categories:
- Padma Vibhushan: For exceptional and distinguished service.
- Padma Bhushan: For distinguished service of high order.
- Padma Shri: For distinguished service.
- Eligibility
- Open to all persons irrespective of race, occupation, position, or gender.
- Government servants including PSUs are not eligible, except doctors and scientists.
- Normally not conferred posthumously however, in highly deserving cases, it is awarded posthumously.
- Selection Process
- Nominations, including self-nominations, are open to the public.
- Padma Awards Committee: Constituted every year by the Prime Minister, it is headed by the Cabinet Secretary and includes Home Secretary, Secretary to the President and four to six eminent persons as members.
- The recommendations of the committee are submitted to the Prime Minister and the President of India for approval.
Conclusion
The Padma Awards embody the nation's recognition of excellence, selfless service, and extraordinary contributions across diverse fields. By honouring individuals from all sections of society through a transparent and inclusive process, they strengthen the values of merit, national unity, and public service, inspiring future generations to contribute to nation-building.
