Padma Awards 2026:
On the eve of the 77th Republic Day 2026, the President approved the 2026 Padma awards list of 131 recipients, comprising 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards.
- The Padma Awards, alongside the Bharat Ratna, are the nation’s premier awards for recognizing distinguished contributions across all fields of public service and human endeavour.
- The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954. Initially, two civilian awards were created, i.e., Bharat Ratna (the highest) and Padma Vibhushan (with three classes). In 1955, Padma Vibhushan classes were restructured into the three distinct awards in descending order of prestige:
- Padma Vibhushan: For “exceptional and distinguished service”; the 2nd-highest civilian award after the Bharat Ratna.
- Padma Bhushan: For “distinguished service of high order”.
- Padma Shri: For “distinguished service in any field.
- Awards are given across diverse disciplines, including Art, Social Work, Public Affairs, Science & Engineering, Civil Service, and more.
- All individuals, irrespective of race, occupation, rank, or gender—including Indian citizens, foreigners, NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs—are eligible for these awards.
- Since 2014, the government has been recognizing “unsung heroes” with the Padma Awards, transforming them into the “People’s Padma”.
- It is governed by the Padma Awards Committee, which is appointed annually by the Prime Minister. The committee is chaired by the Cabinet Secretary and includes the Home Secretary, Secretary to the President, and 4–6 eminent persons. Its recommendations are submitted to the Prime Minister and the President of India for final approval.
- Based on the committee recommendations, it is announced annually on the eve of Republic Day and formally conferred by the President of India in March/April, with recipients receiving a Sanad (certificate), medallion, and replica.
- Generally not conferred posthumously (with rare, highly deserving exceptions).
- A higher category Padma award is only granted after at least five years since the previous Padma award.
- The award is not a title and cannot be used as a prefix or suffix.
- Capped at a maximum of 120 awards per year (excluding posthumous, NRI, foreigner, and OCI recipients).
