Padma Bhushan

Padma Bhushan is the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan. It is awarded by the Government of India to individuals for "distinguished service of a high order" in any field of human activity. The award forms part of the larger Padma Awards framework and is one of the most prestigious national honours conferred by the President of India.^[1]

History and Background

The Padma Bhushan was established in 1954 along with the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri as part of the newly created Padma Awards. Initially classified under a three-tiered system within the Padma Vibhushan award ("Pahela Varg", or Class I), it was restructured in 1955 as an independent honour. Since its inception, it has aimed to recognize outstanding contributions across diverse fields such as literature, education, arts, science, public affairs, civil service, trade and industry, medicine, sports, and social service.

Design and Medal

The Padma Bhushan medal is a circular medallion made of toned bronze. It has a diameter of 1.75 inches and features a centrally embossed lotus flower on the obverse side, with the words "Padma" and "Bhushan" written in Devanagari script above and below it, respectively. On the reverse side, the medal bears the State Emblem of India and the national motto Satyameva Jayate (Truth Alone Triumphs). The medal is worn around the neck with a ribbon of pink colour with a broad white stripe in the middle.

Eligibility and Selection

The award is open to all persons regardless of race, gender, profession, or nationality. It can also be awarded posthumously. Both Indian citizens and foreigners have received the Padma Bhushan in recognition of their service to society and the nation. The selection process is overseen by the Padma Awards Committee, which is constituted by the Prime Minister every year. Recommendations are submitted by state and union territory governments, central ministries, and even by private individuals or organizations.

Notable Recipients

Over the decades, the Padma Bhushan has been awarded to a diverse set of achievers. Among them are:

Dr. Verghese Kurien – the architect of India’s White Revolution Ravi Shankar – sitar maestro and global music ambassador N. R. Narayana Murthy – co-founder of Infosys and IT pioneer Lata Mangeshkar – legendary playback singer E. Sreedharan – the “Metro Man” of India for his engineering excellence

Foreign and Posthumous Awards

The Government of India has occasionally conferred the Padma Bhushan on foreign nationals for their contributions to strengthening India’s international relations or promoting Indian heritage abroad. The award has also been given posthumously to honour individuals who made remarkable contributions during their lifetime.

Criticism and Reforms

The award has, at times, drawn criticism due to perceived lack of transparency or political motivations behind some nominations. To counter this, the government has made the nomination process more open and now allows online public recommendations. Full lists of recipients are published yearly by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and efforts have been made to maintain fairness and inclusivity.

Award Statistics

As of 2023, over 1300 individuals have received the Padma Bhushan. The recipients represent all walks of life, from spiritual leaders and scientists to artists, industrialists, and educators. The award ceremonies are typically held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and are attended by high dignitaries, including the President and Prime Minister of India.

References

↑ Ministry of Home Affairs – Official Padma Awards Portal

[padmaofficial-1] Ministry of Home Affairs – Official Padma Awards Portal

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