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Padma Awards

The scheme aims to recognize distinguished and exceptional achievements across various fields of public service and national importance.

Authority

Central

Region

None

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

Tangible Benefits | - Conferment of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, or Padma Shri. | - Sanad (Certificate) signed by the President of India. | - Medallion along with a miniature replica for ceremonial use. | - National recognition and prestige. | - Publication of awardee’s name in the Gazette of India. | Mode of Disbursement | - Physical conferment of certificate and medallion at Rashtrapati Bhavan. | - Announced annually on 26th January (Republic Day). | - Presentation ceremony is usually held in March or April.

Who can apply

The applicant can be any person without distinction of race, occupation, position, or gender.; The applicant should have rendered distinguished or exceptional service in any field.; The applicant should demonstrate “excellence plus,” meaning excellence combined with public service.; The applicant may belong to fields such as Art, Social Work, Public Affairs, Science & Engineering, Trade & Industry, Medicine, Literature & Education, Civil Service, Sports, or others.; The applicant should not be a serving Government employee; however, doctors and scientists are exempted.; The applicant may be considered posthumously only in rare and highly deserving cases within 1 year of demise.; The applicant should have a minimum gap of 5 years for receiving a higher category award.; The applicant should not misuse the award as a title.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

Can Padma Awards be given posthumously?

Yes, Padma Awards can be conferred posthumously, but only in rare and highly deserving cases.

What is the maximum number of Padma Awards given per year?

A maximum of 120 Padma Awards are given each year, excluding posthumous awards and awards to foreigners.

Who selects the Padma Awards recipients?

The Padma Awards Committee, constituted by the Prime Minister, selects the awardees.

Can a Padma Award be withdrawn after being given?

Yes, the President of India has the authority to cancel or annul a Padma Award if required.

Can the Padma Award be used as a title with a name?

No, the Padma Award cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the awardee’s name in any manner.

Where are the names of Padma Awardees published?

The names of Padma Awardees are officially published in the Gazette of India.

When were the Padma Awards instituted?

The Padma Awards were instituted in the year 1954 by the Government of India.

How many categories are there in Padma Awards?

There are 3 categories in Padma Awards, namely Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.

Who can receive Padma Awards?

Any individual, irrespective of race, occupation, position, or gender, who has made exceptional contributions in any field can receive the Padma Awards.

Are government employees eligible for Padma Awards?

Serving government employees are generally not eligible, except for doctors and scientists who can be considered.

Can a person nominate themselves for Padma Awards?

Yes, any individual can nominate themselves for the Padma Awards through the prescribed process.

Is there any cash reward in Padma Awards?

No, there is no monetary reward or cash benefit associated with the Padma Awards.

When are the Padma Awards announced?

The Padma Awards are announced every year on 26th January, on the occasion of Republic Day.

When is the Padma Awards ceremony held?

The Padma Awards ceremony is usually held in the months of March or April at Rashtrapati Bhavan.