Padma Awards

9th November, 2021 Polity

Figure 3: No Copyright Infringement Intended

Context:

The Padma Awards were instituted in the year 1954, and is announced every year on the occasion of Republic Day except for brief interruption(s) during the years 1978 and 1979 and 1993 to 1997.
Padma Vibhushan: It is the second highest civilian honor of India is given for exceptional and distinguished service in any field including service rendered by the government servants.
The highest award in India is the Bharat Ratna.
Padma Bhushan: This award is given to recognize distinguished service of a high order to the nation.
Padma Shri: It is given by distinguished service in any field including service rendered by the Government servants.

The state governments, union territory administrations, central ministries and departments, the institutions of Excellence etc. submit the recommendations for the Padma awards.
These nominations are then considered by an Awards Committee who give their recommendations.
The Padma Awards Committee is constituted by the Prime Minister every year.
The Awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (distinguished service of higher order) and Padma Shri (distinguished service).

All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these awards.
However, except doctors and scientists, government servants including those working with PSUs, are not eligible for the Padma Awards.