The Government of India announced the Padma Awards 2026 on the eve of Republic Day, marking January 26 with national recognition of excellence.
President Droupadi Murmu approved 131 civilian honours across three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
The Padma Awards rank among the country’s highest civilian distinctions. They honour individuals who deliver sustained and distinguished service to the nation.
The awards cover fields such as arts, public affairs, education, literature, science, medicine, sports, industry, and social service.
Five eminent personalities received the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour.
The government posthumously recognised veteran actor Dharmendra Singh Deol for his lasting impact on Indian cinema.
Other recipients include former Supreme Court judge K T Thomas, renowned classical violinist N Rajam, respected writer and educator P Narayanan, and former Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandhan, also honoured posthumously.
Recognising Excellence Across Fields
Thirteen individuals earned the Padma Bhushan for service of a high order. The list features playback singer Alka Yagnik and acclaimed actor Mammootty for their contributions to the arts.
Banker and business leader Uday Kotak received recognition for strengthening India’s financial sector.
Former Uttarakhand Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and noted social worker S K M Maeilanandhan also figured among the awardees.
The government honoured tennis icon Vijay Amritraj for his influence on Indian sport.
The government conferred 113 Padma Shri awards, the largest share, on citizens from diverse backgrounds.
Scientists, physicians, literacy campaigners, artists, and sportspersons receive recognition, including A E Muthunayagam, Armida Fernandez, Anke Gowda M, Anil Kumar Rastogi, Arvind Vaidya, Rohit Sharma, and Harmanpreet Kaur Bhullar.
These individuals represent diverse fields of science, medicine, literacy, art, and sports.
Several honourees represent grassroots leadership. Anke Gowda built one of India’s largest free public libraries.
Mohan Nagar received recognition for environmental work in Madhya Pradesh.
The government honoured Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai for preserving regional art traditions.s.
Among the 2026 awardees, 19 are women. Six are foreign nationals or persons of Indian origin. The government announced sixteen honours posthumously.
The government uses the Republic Day Padma Awards 2026 to celebrate national icons and quiet changemakers.
These awards honour individuals who strengthen India’s social and cultural foundations.
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