Last updated on July 17th, 2024 at 03:43 pm
The Padma Awards, comprising Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are amongst India’s highest civilian honors, celebrating individuals who have made outstanding contributions to society. As we approach Republic Day in 2024, the call for nominations for these prestigious awards has officially begun. Here’s all you need to know about the Padma Awards and how to nominate deserving candidates.
The Padma Awards: A Legacy of Distinction
Established in 1954, the Padma Awards are a testament to the nation’s gratitude and recognition of excellence. These awards are presented annually on Republic Day, honoring individuals who have achieved ‘work of distinction’ in various fields and disciplines. The categories encompass Art, Literature, Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science, Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade, and Industry.
Inclusivity and Eligibility
One remarkable aspect of the Padma Awards is their inclusivity. They are open to all individuals, regardless of their race, occupation, position, or gender. However, there is one crucial criterion: government servants, except Doctors and Scientists, including those working in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), are not eligible for Padma Awards.
The Transformation to “People’s Padma”
The government is committed to making the Padma Awards more accessible and inclusive. Hence, all citizens are encouraged to participate actively in the nomination process. This includes the possibility of self-nomination. The aim is to identify and recognize talented individuals from all walks of life, with a particular focus on women, the marginalized sections of society, SCs & STs, divyang (differently-abled) individuals, and those who selflessly serve society.
Nomination Guidelines
For those interested in nominating individuals for the Padma Awards, it’s essential to provide all the relevant details specified in the format available on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in). A key component of the nomination is a citation in narrative form, with a maximum of 800 words. This citation should clearly highlight the distinguished and exceptional achievements or services of the recommended person in their respective field or discipline.
Get Involved: Submit Your Nominations
If you wish to make a nomination or recommendation for the Padma Awards 2024, visit the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in) for detailed information and the nomination process. Additional details are also available under the ‘Awards and Medals’ section on the Ministry of Home Affairs website (https://mha.gov.in) and the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in).
For a comprehensive understanding of the statutes and rules governing these prestigious awards, visit the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx).
