Padma Shri
Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, and Padma Bhushan. It is conferred by the Government of India to honour individuals for their distinguished contribution in various spheres of activity including the arts, education, industry, literature, science, sports, medicine, social service, and public affairs.[1]
History
The Padma Awards — including the Padma Shri — were instituted in 1954. Initially, the Padma Awards were given under a single category called "Padma Vibhushan" with three classes. However, in 1955, they were reclassified into three distinct awards: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. Since then, Padma Shri has become a regular and respected recognition of grassroots excellence and dedicated service.
Design of the Medal
The Padma Shri medal is a circular bronze medallion. On the obverse side, the award bears a centrally located lotus flower, with the words "Padma" and "Shri" inscribed in Devanagari script above and below the flower respectively. The reverse side features the State Emblem of India and the national motto Satyameva Jayate (Truth Alone Triumphs). The ribbon is pink with a white stripe down the center.
Eligibility and Criteria
The Padma Shri is open to all citizens of India, regardless of race, occupation, position, or gender. It may also be awarded to foreign nationals and is occasionally conferred posthumously. The government accepts nominations from central ministries, state governments, previous awardees, institutions, and even individuals via an online portal.[2]
Significance and Reach
Unlike the higher civilian awards that often go to prominent figures, the Padma Shri is known for recognising unsung heroes and grassroots contributors. From rural school teachers and tribal artists to social workers and environmentalists, the award celebrates quiet excellence.
Notable Recipients
Padma Shri has been awarded to a wide array of individuals over the years. Some notable names include:
- T. N. Seshan – former Chief Election Commissioner
- Jadav Payeng – environmental activist known as the "Forest Man of India"
- Mary Kom – Indian boxer
- Saalumarada Thimmakka – environmentalist and tree planter
- Hema Malini – veteran actress and Member of Parliament
- Murlikant Petkar – India’s first Paralympic gold medallist
Criticism and Reforms
While the Padma Shri has generally been praised for expanding recognition to a broader population, it has occasionally been criticised for political bias or for overlooking deserving candidates. In response, the government has aimed to make the selection process more transparent and inclusive by allowing public nominations through the official portal.
Award Statistics
As of 2023, over 3100 individuals have been honoured with the Padma Shri. It is awarded annually on Republic Day and presented in a formal ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the presence of the President of India and other dignitaries.
Recent Developments
In recent years, the award has especially highlighted ordinary citizens doing extraordinary work. Several folk artists, tribal healers, teachers, and farmers have received national recognition through the Padma Shri, aligning with the government’s vision of “People’s Padma.”[3]
See Also
References
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