Introduced in 1954, the Padma Awards are one of India’s highest civilian awards, announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, 26th January. These awards aim to recognize achievements across various fields and activities, especially those that incorporate a public service element.
The Categories of the Padma Awards
The Padma Awards are categorized into three distinct segments:
- Padma Vibhushan – For exceptional and distinguished service
- Padma Bhushan – For distinguished service of higher order
- Padma Shri – For distinguished service
These categories aim to capture the breadth of contributions and individuals’ services in an array of disciplines including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service.
Selection and Conferment of the Padma Awards
Every year, the Padma Awards Committee, constituted by the Prime Minister, is responsible for deciding the recipients of the awards. The honours are eventually presented by the President of India, usually in the month of March or April. Notably, the award does not grant a title and cannot be used as a suffix or prefix to the awardee’s name.
Restrictions and Limitations of the Padma Awards
The total number of awards conferred in a year (excluding posthumous awards and to non-resident Indians/foreigners/overseas citizens of India) should not exceed 120. For instance, in 2020, the President approved conferment of 141 Padma Awards including 4 duo cases (in a duo case, the Award is counted as one). This list included 7 Padma Vibhushan, 16 Padma Bhushan, and 118 Padma Shri Awards.
Breakdown of Padma Awards Conferred in 2020
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Padma Vibhushan | 7 |
| Padma Bhushan | 16 |
| Padma Shri | 118 |
| Duo Cases (Counted as One) | 4 |
The Distinction from Bharat Ratna
Though the Padma Awards are highly esteemed, they are distinct from the Bharat Ratna – the highest civilian award of India. The Bharat Ratna recognises exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour. Unlike the Padma Awards, recommendations for the Bharat Ratna are made directly by the Prime Minister to the President of India. There is also a cap on the number of Bharat Ratna Awards that can be conferred in a year, with a maximum of three recipients.
