Last updated on July 17th, 2024 at 03:43 pm
The Padma Awards, comprising the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, hold a revered place as some of the highest civilian honors in India. Established in 1954, these awards are an embodiment of recognition for ‘work of distinction.’ Each year, these accolades are unveiled on Republic Day, celebrating exceptional achievements and services across various fields, from Art, Literature, and Education to Sports, Medicine, and more. The Padma Awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
Online Nominations: Embracing the Digital Era
In a significant stride towards embracing the digital age and making the process more accessible, nominations and recommendations for the Padma Awards can now be submitted online. This transition aims to encourage a more diverse pool of nominees, including self-nominations.
Eligibility Criteria
One of the defining aspects of the Padma Awards is their inclusivity. They are open to all individuals, without bias based on race, occupation, position, or gender. However, it’s essential to note that government servants, including those in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), except for Doctors and Scientists, are not eligible for these prestigious awards.
The People’s Padma
The Government’s vision for the Padma Awards is to transform them into “People’s Padma.” This means that every citizen is encouraged to participate in the nomination and recommendation process. It’s a call to action for individuals to identify and nominate talented individuals whose excellence and contributions merit recognition, especially among women, weaker sections of society, SCs & STs, persons with disabilities, and those selflessly serving the community.
Submission Details
Nominations and recommendations for the Padma Awards must adhere to the specific format available on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in). This includes a citation in narrative form, with a maximum word limit of 800 words. The citation should effectively highlight the distinguished and exceptional achievements or services rendered by the nominee in their respective field or discipline.
For further information and guidelines, you can refer to the ‘Awards and Medals’ section on the Ministry of Home Affairs website (https://mha.gov.in) and the dedicated Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in).
