Civilian Awards in India 2024: Unveiling Top Categories & Recipients

November 25, 2024
civilian awards in india
Quick Summary

Quick Summary

  • Civilian awards in India represent the highest honors awarded by the Government of India to recognize the exceptional achievements and contributions of individuals across various fields.
  • There are four primary categories of civilian awards in India: Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri
  • The most recent recipient of the Bharat Ratna in 2024 is Karpoori Thakur, a renowned socialist leader from Bihar known for his contributions to social justice and governance.

Table of Contents

Civilian Awards in India

Civilian awards in India represent the highest honors awarded by the Government of India to recognize the exceptional achievements and contributions of individuals across various fields. These prestigious awards are presented to citizens who have made significant impacts on society. There are four primary categories of civilian awards in India: Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. Each year, on Republic Day, the President of India presents these awards to honor extraordinary contributions.

The highest of these awards in Civilian Awards in India is the Bharat Ratna, which is bestowed for exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor. The most recent recipient of the Bharat Ratna in 2024 is Karpoori Thakur, a renowned socialist leader from Bihar known for his contributions to social justice and governance. His legacy continues to influence and inspire.

In this article, we explore the esteemed realm of civilian awards in India, where dedication, talent, and service come together to celebrate remarkable achievements and create compelling stories of impact.

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Rank of Civilian Awards in India (2024)

India’s prestigious civilian awards recognize exceptional contributions in various fields. Here’s a quick look at the rankings:

ArticleRank Description
Bharat Ratna1stThe highest civilian honor, awarded for exceptional service in any field.
Padma Vibhushan2ndSecond-highest award, given for excellence in arts, literature, public service, or sciences.
Padma Bhushan3rdThird-highest award, recognizing outstanding achievements in any field, excluding public sector roles.
Padma Shri4thFourth-highest award, recognizing significant contributions in various domains, including government service.

Highеst Civilian Awards in India

1. Bharat Ratna: Highest Civilian Award (1st Degree of Honor)

The name of the highest civilian award in India is Bharat Ratna, meaning “Jewel of India” in Sanskrit, and is the most prestigious civilian honor bestowed by the Republic of India. Established in 1954, it recognizes exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field, from science and literature to public service and social welfare.

Key Points About the Bharat Ratna:

  • Institution and Purpose:
    • Instituted in 1954 by the President of India.
    • It aims to honor distinguished service or outstanding contributions of Indian citizens or foreigners to the nation or humanity.
    • Does not carry any monetary grant or special privileges but symbolizes respect and admiration.
  • Design and Presentation:
    • It consists of a bronze medallion shaped like a peepal leaf (approximately 370 grams).
    • Features an embossed image of the Sun and the words “Bharat Ratna.”
    • Worn around the neck with a white ribbon.
    • Accompanied by a certificate signed by the President and a smaller replica of the medallion.
  • Recipients:
    • The first recipients in 1954 were C. Rajagopalachari, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and C.V. Raman.
    • A total of 53 recipients, including eminent personalities like Jawaharlal Nehru, Mother Teresa, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Sachin Tendulkar, and Lata Mangeshkar.
    • Can be awarded posthumously (e.g., Lal Bahadur Shastri, B.R. Ambedkar, Subhas Chandra Bose, Ravi Shankar).
  • Selection Process:
    • The President decides based on recommendations from the Prime Minister.
    • Consults a group of respected individuals, including the Vice President, Chief Justice of India, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and others.
  • Limitations:
    • Maximum of three recipients per year.
    • Serves as a token of gratitude for individuals who have made remarkable contributions to India.

Bharat Ratna, one of the highest civilian awards in India, remains a prestigious honor, recognizing exceptional achievements and service.

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Bharat Ratna: Highest Civilian Award (1st degree of honour)

2. Padma Vibhushan: Second-Highest Civilian Award (2nd Degree of Honor)

The Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award in India awarded by the Republic of India, recognizing exceptional and distinguished service or contributions. Established in 1954 alongside the Bharat Ratna and Padma Shri, it acknowledges outstanding achievements in any field.

Key Points About the Bharat Ratna:

  • Institution and Purpose:
    • Instituted in 1954, along with the Bharat Ratna and Padma Shri.
    • Awarded to individuals for outstanding achievements in any field.
    • Symbolizes national respect and recognition.
  • Design and Presentation:
    • Features a larger shiny silver coin.
    • Front: Embossed image of a lotus flower.
    • Reverse side: Depicts the Sun and the State Emblem of India.
    • Worn around the neck with a blue ribbon featuring two white stripes.
    • Accompanied by a certificate signed by the President and a replica of the medal.
  • Recipients:
    • Awarded to individuals with exceptional contributions in various domains.
    • Represents the nation’s gratitude and acknowledgment for significant achievements.
  • Selection Process:
    • Similar to the Bharat Ratna, the Prime Minister recommends recipients based on consultations with a distinguished committee.

The Padma Vibhushan remains a prestigious honor, celebrating excellence across diverse fields.

Padma Vibhushan: Second-Highest Civilian Award (2nd Degree of Honor)

3. Padma Bhushan: Third-Highest Civilian Award (3rd Degree of Honor)

The Padma Bhushan is the third-highest civilian award in India awarded by the Republic of India, bestowed upon individuals who have rendered “distinguished service of a high order” in any field. Instituted in 1954 alongside the Bharat Ratna and Padma Shri, it acknowledges notable achievements across a wide spectrum of disciplines.

Key Points About the Padma Bhushan:

  • Institution and Purpose:
    • Instituted in 1954, along with the Bharat Ratna and Padma Shri.
    • Awarded to civilians for outstanding work in any field.
    • Represents national respect and recognition for notable achievements.
  • Design and Presentation:
    • Round silver medal.
    • Front: Embossed image of a beautiful lotus flower.
    • Reverse side: Depicts the Sun and India’s emblem.
    • Worn around the neck with a blue ribbon featuring a single white stripe.
    • Accompanied by a certificate signed by the President and a miniature replica of the medallion.
  • Recipients:
    • Open to all Indian citizens (except a few government employees) and foreign nationals.
  • Selection Process:
    • Similar to the Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan, the Prime Minister recommends recipients based on consultations with a distinguished committee.

The Padma Bhushan remains a prestigious recognition, celebrating remarkable contributions to India.

Padma Shri: Fourth-Highest Civilian Award (4th Degree of Honor)

4. Padma Shri: Fourth-Highest Civilian Award (4th Degree of Honor)

The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian Award in India awarded by the Republic of India, recognizing distinguished service in any field. Instituted in 1954 alongside the Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan, it acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation.

Key Points About the Padma Shri:

  • Inception:
    • Instituted in 1954 alongside the Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan.
    • Honors exceptional contributions across various domains.
  • Design and Symbolism:
    • Circular bronze medal.
    • Front: Features an elegant lotus flower.
    • Reverse side: Depicts the Sun and India’s emblem.
    • Inscribed with the words “Padma Shri.”
  • Presentation:
    • Recipients receive a certificate signed by the President.
    • They also receive a miniature replica of the medal.
    • Worn around the neck with a blue ribbon.
  • Selection Process:
    • Similar to the Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan, the Prime Minister recommends recipients based on consultations with a distinguished committee.

The Padma Shri serves as a heartfelt acknowledgment of remarkable achievements.

Padma Shri: Fourth-Highest Civilian Award (4th Degree of Honor)

Civilian Awards in India: Padma Awards

The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honors and are governed by specific guidelines:

  • Posthumous Awards: Generally, Padma Awards are not conferred posthumously, but exceptions may be made for exceptionally deserving individuals.
  • Time Between Awards: Typically, a minimum of five years must elapse between receiving different Padma awards. However, the Awards Committee may consider exceptions in exceptional cases.
  • Award Ceremony: The awards are presented by the President of India, usually in March or April each year. Recipients receive a certificate (Sanad) signed by the President and a medallion.
  • Medallion Replica: Awardees receive a smaller replica of the medallion, which they may wear during official functions if they choose.
  • Annual Limit: The total number of Padma awards conferred each year, excluding posthumous awards and those given to foreign recipients, is capped at 120.
  • Not a Title: The Padma Award is not a title and should not be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipient’s name.

Impact and Legacy of Civilian Awards in India

Civilian awards in India including the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri extend far beyond individual recognition. Let’s explore their profound impact and enduring legacy:

1. Cultural Heritage

Preserving Traditions

  • These awards celebrate excellence across diverse fields—arts, literature, science, sports, and social service.
  • By honoring achievers, they reinforce India’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Promoting Art and Literature

  • Awardees contribute significantly to Indian art, literature, and music.
  • Their works become part of the nation’s cultural tapestry, inspiring generations.

2. National Pride

Symbol of Achievement

  • Civilian awards in India symbolize national pride and honor.
  • Recipients become ambassadors of India’s achievements on the global stage.

Inspiring Patriotism

  • The recognition bestowed upon awardees fosters a sense of patriotism.
  • Citizens take pride in their country’s accomplishments.

3. Inspiration for Future Generations

Role Models

  • Awardees serve as role models for aspiring individuals.
  • Their stories inspire young minds to dream big and work hard.

Promoting Excellence

  • The pursuit of excellence becomes contagious.
  • Students, professionals, and artists strive to achieve greatness.

4. Upholding Values

Values of Service and Sacrifice

  • Many awardees have dedicated their lives to social causes.
  • Their selflessness inspires others to contribute to society.

Ethical Leadership

  • Awardees exemplify ethical leadership.
  • Their actions reinforce the importance of integrity and compassion.

The civilian awards in India transcend individual achievements, leaving an indelible mark on India’s cultural legacy. Their impact resonates through generations, fostering pride and excellence.

Notable Recipients of Civilian Awards in India

Delve into the remarkable stories of individuals who have left an indelible mark on society through their exceptional contributions. From Nobel laureates to social reformers, these awardees inspire generations and uphold the nation’s values.

1. Bharat Ratna Awardees

C. Rajagopalachari (1954)

  • An Indian independence activist, statesman, and lawyer.
  • The last Governor-General of independent India.
  • Founder of the Swatantra Party, advocating for economic freedom and individual rights.

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1954)

  • India’s first Vice President (1952–62) and second President (1962–67).
  • A philosopher, author, and educationist.
  • His birthday (September 5) is celebrated as “Teachers’ Day” in India.

C. V. Raman (1954)

  • A Nobel laureate physicist renowned for his groundbreaking work on light scattering (Raman scattering).
  • Contributed significantly to atomic physics and electromagnetism.

2. Padma Vibhushan Awardees

Satyendra Nath Bose (1954)

  • Eminent physicist and mathematician.
  • He is known for his collaboration with Albert Einstein on Bose-Einstein statistics.
  • His work laid the foundation for quantum mechanics.

Nandalal Bose (1954)

  • Celebrated painter and one of the pioneers of modern Indian art.
  • He is known for his role in the Bengal School of Art and his iconic paintings.

Zakir Husain (1954)

  • Philosopher, educationist, and India’s third President (1967–69).
  • Promoted education and cultural understanding.

Balasaheb Gangadhar Kher (1954)

  • Premier of the United Provinces (1937–39, 1946–50).
  • First Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (1950–54).
  • Served as Union Home Minister from 1955–61.

3. Padma Shri Awardees

Parbati Baruah

  • India’s first female elephant handler (mahout).
  • Broke gender barriers and contributed to wildlife conservation.

Gurvinder Singh

  • A social worker from Haryana.
  • His efforts have positively impacted the lives of many.

Yanung Jamoh Lego

  • Revived herbal healing practices of the Adi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Preserved indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage.

Prema Dhanraj

  • A burn victim turned plastic reconstructive surgeon.
  • Helped countless burn victims regain their lives.

Rohan Bopanna

  • A professional tennis player.
  • He became the oldest World No. 1 in men’s tennis at the age of 43.

The recipients of civilian awards in India exemplify excellence, resilience, and dedication. Their contributions continue to inspire generations. These remarkable individuals have left an indelible mark on society through their exceptional contributions. Their stories serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Recent Awardees of Civilian Awards in India 2024

Delve into the remarkable stories of individuals who have left an indelible mark on society through their exceptional contributions. From Nobel laureates to social reformers, the recipients of civilian awards in India inspire generations and uphold the nation’s values. Here is the list of civilian awards in India in 2024:

Recent Bharat Ratna Awardees (2024)

1. Karpoori Thakur (Posthumous):

  • A well-known socialist leader from Bihar.
  • His contributions to social justice and governance have left a lasting impact.

2. L. K. Advani:

  • A prominent politician and former Deputy Prime Minister of India.
  • He is known for his role in shaping Indian politics.

3. P. V. Narasimha Rao:

  • Former Prime Minister of India (1991–1996).
  • Instrumental in driving economic reform and liberalization.

4. Charan Singh:

  • Former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and Union Minister.
  • Singh advocated for farmers’ rights and rural development.

5. M. S. Swaminathan:

  • Eminent agricultural scientist and geneticist.
  • Pioneered the Green Revolution in India.

Recent Padma Vibhushan Awardees (2024)

1. Vyjayanthimala:

  • Renowned actress, classical dancer, and parliamentarian.
  • Contributed significantly to Indian cinema and dance.

2. Chiranjeevi:

  • Veteran actor, producer, and politician from Andhra Pradesh.
  • He is known for his iconic roles in Telugu cinema.

3. Venkaiah Naidu:

  • Current Vice President of India and former Union Minister.
  • A key figure in Indian politics and public service.

4. Bindeshwar Pathak (Posthumous):

  • Social reformer and founder of Sulabh International.
  • Worked tirelessly to improve sanitation and hygiene standards.

Recent Padma Shri Awardees (2024)

1. Sonu Nigam:

  • Versatile playback singer and musician.
  • His soulful voice has touched millions.

2. Neeraj Chopra:

  • Olympic gold medalist in the javelin throw.
  • Brought glory to India in athletics.

These awardees represent excellence across arts, sports, social work, and more. Their contributions inspire us all.

Important Questions on Major Civilian Awards in India

1.  Which is the highest civilian award in India?

  • A) Padma Vibhushan 
  • B) Bharat Ratna 
  • C) Padma Bhushan 
  • D) Padma Shri 

   Answer: B) Bharat Ratna

2. Which award is given for exceptional bravery in the line of duty? 

  • A) Padma Awards 
  • B) National Sports Awards 
  • C) Gallantry Awards 
  • D) None of the above 

   Answer: C) Gallantry Awards

3. Which award recognizes excellence in sports? 

  • A) Padma Awards 
  • B) National Sports Awards 
  • C) Gallantry Awards 
  • D) None of the above 

   Answer: B) National Sports Awards

4. Which award honors contributions in arts, literature, and science? 

  • A) Padma Vibhushan 
  • B) Bharat Ratna 
  • C) Padma Bhushan 
  • D) Padma Shri 

   Answer: A) Padma Vibhushan

5. Which of the following awards is not divided into categories? 

  • A) Padma Awards 
  • B) National Sports Awards 
  • C) Gallantry Awards 
  • D) All of the above 

   Answer: C) Gallantry Awards

6. Which is not a category of the Padma Awards? 

  • A) Padma Bhushan 
  • B) Padma Shri 
  • C) Padma Ratna 
  • D) Padma Vibhushan 

   Answer: C) Padma Ratna

7. Which award recognizes distinguished service in literature and education? 

  • A) Padma Vibhushan 
  • B) Padma Bhushan 
  • C) Bharat Ratna 
  • D) Padma Shri 

   Answer: B) Padma Bhushan

8. Which award is given for contributions to science and technology? 

  • A) Padma Shri 
  • B) Bharat Ratna 
  • C) Padma Vibhushan 
  • D) Padma Bhushan 

   Answer: C) Padma Vibhushan

9. Which is the highest bravery award in peacetime? 

  • A) Param Vir Chakra 
  • B) Ashoka Chakra 
  • C) Kirti Chakra 
  • D) Padma Shri 

   Answer: B) Ashoka Chakra

10. Which award recognizes contributions in social work? 

  • A) Padma Bhushan 
  • B) Padma Vibhushan 
  • C) Padma Shri 
  • D) Bharat Ratna 

    Answer: C) Padma Shri

We hope this clears up any doubts about India’s prestigious civilian awards!

Awardees of Civilian Awards in India in the Last Three Years 

List of Civilian Awards in India and Awardees 2023 (As Per Degree of Honor)

1. Padma Vibhushan (6)

S.N.NameFieldState/Country
 1Shri Balkrishna Doshi (Posthumous)Others – ArchitectureGujarat
 2Shri Zakir HussainArtMaharashtra
 3Shri S M KrishnaPublic AffairsKarnataka
 4Shri Dilip Mahalanabis (Posthumous)MedicineWest Bengal
 5Shri Srinivas VaradhanScience & EngineeringUnited States of America
 6Shri Mulayam Singh Yadav (Posthumous)Public AffairsUttar Pradesh

2. Padma Bhushan (9)

S.N.NameFieldState/Country
 1Shri S L BhyrappaLiterature & EducationKarnataka
 2Shri Kumar Mangalam BirlaTrade & IndustryMaharashtra
 3Shri Deepak DharScience & EngineeringMaharashtra
 4Ms. Vani JairamArtTamil Nadu
 5Swami Chinna JeeyarOthers – SpiritualismTelangana
 6Ms. Suman KalyanpurArtMaharashtra
 7Shri Kapil KapoorLiterature & EducationDelhi
 8Ms. Sudha MurtySocial WorkKarnataka
 9Shri Kamlesh D PatelOthers – SpiritualismTelangana

3. Padma Shri (91)

S. No.NameFieldState/Country
1Dr. Sukama AcharyaOthers – SpiritualismHaryana
2Ms. Jodhaiyabai BaigaArtMadhya Pradesh
3Shri Premjit BariaArtDadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
4Ms. Usha BarleArtChhattisgarh
5Shri Munishwar ChanddawarMedicineMadhya Pradesh
6Shri Hemant ChauhanArtGujarat
7Shri Bhanubhai ChitaraArtGujarat
8Ms. Hemoprova ChutiaArtAssam
9Shri Narendra Chandra Debbarma (Posthumous)Public AffairsTripura
10Ms. Subhadra DeviArtBihar
11Shri Khadar Valli DudekulaScience & EngineeringKarnataka
12Shri Hem Chandra GoswamiArtAssam
13Ms. Pritikana GoswamiArtWest Bengal
14Shri Radha Charan GuptaLiterature & EducationUttar Pradesh
15Shri Modadugu Vijay GuptaScience & EngineeringTelangana
16Shri Ahmed Hussain & Shri Mohd Hussain (Duo)ArtRajasthan
17Shri Dilshad HussainArtUttar Pradesh
18Shri Bhiku Ramji IdateSocial WorkMaharashtra
19Shri C I IssacLiterature & EducationKerala
20Shri Rattan Singh JaggiLiterature & EducationPunjab

Please note that this is not a complete list. Find the complete list here.

List of Civilian Awards and Awardees 2022 (As Per Degree of Honor)

Padma Vibhushan (4)
S.No.NameFieldState/Country
1.Ms. Prabha AtreArtMaharashtra
2.Shri Radheyshyam Khemka(Posthumous)Literature and EducationUttar Pradesh
3.General Bipin Rawat(Posthumous)Civil ServiceUttarakhand
4.Shri Kalyan Singh(Posthumous)Public AffairsUttar Pradesh
 Padma Bhushan (16)
S. No.NameFieldState/Country
1.Shri Victor BanerjeeArtWest Bengal
2.Ms. Gurmeet Bawa(Posthumous)ArtPunjab
3.Shri Buddhadeb BhattacharjeePublic AffairsWest Bengal
4.Shri Natarajan ChandrasekaranTrade and IndustryMaharashtra
5.Shri Krishna Ella and Smt. Suchitra Ella* (Duo)Trade and IndustryTelangana
6.Ms. Madhur JafferyOthers-CulinaryUnited States of America
7.Shri Devendra JhajhariaSportsRajasthan
8.Shri Rashid KhanArtUttar Pradesh
9.Shri Rajiv MehrishiCivil ServiceRajasthan
10.Shri Satya Narayana NadellaTrade and IndustryUnited States of America
11.Shri Sundararajan PichaiTrade and IndustryUnited States of America
12.Shri Cyrus PoonawallaTrade and IndustryMaharashtra
13.Shri Sanjaya Rajaram(Posthumous)Science and EngineeringMexico
14.Ms. Pratibha RayLiterature and EducationOdisha
15.Swami SachidanandLiterature and EducationGujarat
16.Shri Vashishth TripathiLiterature and EducationUttar Pradesh

3. Padma Shri (106)

S. No.NameFieldState/Country
1Shri Prahlad Rai AgarwalaTrade and IndustryWest Bengal
2Prof. Najma AkhtarLiterature and EducationDelhi
3Shri Sumit AntilSportsHaryana
4Shri T Senka AoLiterature and EducationNagaland
5Ms. Kamalini Asthana and Ms. Nalini Asthana* (Duo)ArtUttar Pradesh
6Shri Subbanna AyyappanScience and EngineeringKarnataka
7Shri J K BajajLiterature and EducationDelhi
8Shri Sirpi BalasubramaniamLiterature and EducationTamil Nadu
9Srimad Baba BaliaSocial WorkOdisha
10Ms. Sanghamitra BandyopadhyayScience and EngineeringWest Bengal
11Ms. Madhuri BarthwalArtUttarakhand
12Shri Akhone Asgar Ali BasharatLiterature and EducationJammu and Kashmir

Please note that this is not a complete list. Find the complete list here.

List of Civilian Awards and Awardees 2021 (As Per Degree of Honor)

1. Padma Vibhushan (7)

S.N.NameFieldState/Country
 1Shri Shinzo AbePublic AffairsJapan
 2Shri S P Balasubramaniam (Posthumous)ArtTamil Nadu
 3Dr. Belle Monappa HegdeMedicineKarnataka
 4Shri Narinder Singh Kapany (Posthumous)Science and EngineeringUnited States of America
 5Maulana Wahiduddin KhanOthers- SpiritualismDelhi
 6Shri B. B. LalOthers- ArchaeologyDelhi
 7Shri Sudarshan SahooArtOdisha

2. Padma Bhushan (10)

 1Ms. Krishnan Nair Shantakumari ChithraArtKerala
Shri Tarun Gogoi (Posthumous)Public AffairsAssam
 3Shri Chandrashekhar KambaraLiterature and EducationKarnataka
 4Ms. Sumitra MahajanPublic AffairsMadhya Pradesh
 5Shri Nripendra MisraCivil ServiceUttar Pradesh
 6Shri Ram Vilas Paswan (Posthumous)Public AffairsBihar
 7Shri Keshubhai Patel (Posthumous)Public AffairsGujarat
 8Shri Kalbe Sadiq (Posthumous)Others-SpiritualismUttar Pradesh
 9Shri Rajnikant Devidas ShroffTrade and IndustryMaharashtra
 10Shri Tarlochan SinghPublic AffairsHaryana

3. Padma Shri (102)

S. No.NameFieldState
1Shri Gulfam AhmedArtUttar Pradesh
2Ms. P. AnithaSportsTamil Nadu
3Shri Rama Swamy AnnavarapuArtAndhra Pradesh
4Shri Subbu ArumugamArtTamil Nadu
5Shri Prakasarao AsavadiLiterature and EducationAndhra Pradesh
6Ms. Bhuri BaiArtMadhya Pradesh
7Shri Radhe Shyam BarleArtChhattisgarh
8Shri Dharma Narayan BarmaLiterature and EducationWest Bengal
9Ms. Lakhimi BaruahSocial WorkAssam
10Shri Biren Kumar BasakArtWest Bengal

Please note that this is not a complete list. Find the complete list here.

Gallantry Awards in India

Gallantry Awards recognize exceptional acts of bravery and valor by Armed Forces personnel. These awards are conferred twice a year—on Republic Day and Independence Day.

Awards & Descriptions:

  • Param Vir Chakra: 
    • Highest military award for extraordinary bravery during wartime.
    • Known as the “Wheel of the Ultimate Brave.”
  • Mahavir Chakra:
    • Second-highest award for acts of conspicuous gallantry in the presence of the enemy, on land, sea, or air.
  • Vir Chakra: 
    • Third-highest award for gallantry on the battlefield in the face of the enemy.
  • Ashoka Chakra: 
    • Awarded for bravery or self-sacrifice in peacetime, away from the battlefield.
    • Equivalent to the US Medal of Honour.
  • Kirti Chakra:  
    • Awarded for acts of bravery in peacetime (similar to Maha Vir Chakra, but for non-combat situations).
    • Presented to both military and civilian personnel. 

This concise summary highlights the Gallantry Awards and their significance in recognizing bravery and self-sacrifice in the Indian Armed Forces.

Top 10 Civilian Awards in India

The top 10 list of civilian awards in India recognizes outstanding achievements across various fields. These prestigious accolades celebrate excellence, dedication, and contributions to the nation. 🇮🇳

AwardDescription
Bharat RatnaIndia’s highest civilian awards. Recognizes exceptional service or contributions to the nation.
Padma VibhushanSecond-highest civilian awards. Distinguished achievements in Arts, Literature, Science, and more.
Padma BhushanThird-highest civilian awards. Honors service in various fields.
Padma ShriFourth-highest civilian award. Recognizes achievements across domains.
Param Vir ChakraHighest military decoration for acts of valor during wartime.
Ashoka ChakraGallantry award for bravery by civilians during peacetime.
Dada Saheb PhalkeLifetime achievement award in Indian cinema.
Arjuna AwardRecognizes outstanding athletes in sports.
Sahitya AkademiLiterary award for exceptional works in Indian languages.
Jnanpith AwardHighest literary honor for contributions to Indian literature.

Difference Between Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan

AspectPadma ShriPadma Bhushan
RankingFourth-highest civilian awards in indiaThird-highest civilian award in India
Established1954 (renamed in 1955)1954 (renamed in 1955)
CriteriaRecognizes distinguished service in any fieldRecognizes distinguished service of a high order in any field
RecipientsIndividuals showing excellence and service at a local levelIndividuals showing excellence and service at a national level
Awarding BodyGovernment of IndiaGovernment of India
FrequencyAnnuallyAnnually

Civilian Awards in India: Conclusion

  • In conclusion, Civilian Awards in India, particularly the prеstigious Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, stand as symbols of recognition for еxcеptional contributions across various fields. Thе Bharat Ratna, India’s highеst civilian award, rеflеcts thе nation’s gratitudе to individuals likе Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashеlkar, whosе rеmarkablе achiеvеmеnts in sciеncе and tеchnology еxеmplify thе purpose of the award. Bеyond thе Bharat Ratna, thе Padma awards honor еxcеllеncе in fields ranging from litеraturе to social work. As еvidеncеd by thе divеrsе list of rеcеnt awardееs, civilian awards in India continuе to cеlеbratе and acknowlеdgе outstanding sеrvicе, fostеring a sеnsе of national pridе and apprеciation.

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Don’t just read about the Civilian Awards in India—become part of the story! These prestigious honors celebrate the remarkable achievements of everyday heroes and history-makers.

Civilian Awards in India: FAQs

What are the 5 highest civilian awards in India?

These are the 5 highest civilian awards in India:
1. Bharat Ratna
2. Padma Vibhushan
3. Padma Bhushan
4. Padma Shri
5. Ashoka Chakra

Which award is given to civilians of India?

All four awards (Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri) are given to civilians of India. These awards recognize exceptional service and achievements in any field.

What is the No. 1 award in India?

The highest of the civilian awards in India is the Bharat Ratna.

What is the second civilian award in India?

The 2nd highest civilian award in India is the Padma Vibhushan. It recognizes exceptional and distinguished service in any field.

Which is the 5th highest civilian award in India?

The Param Vir Chakra comes in the 5th position in the list of highest civilian awards in India.

What is the limit of Bharat Ratna?

The number of Bharat Ratna is restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year.

Which cricketer received the Bharat Ratna?

In 2014, Sachin Tendulkar became the first and only sportsperson to receive the Bharat Ratna. He debuted in 1989 and played 664 international matches throughout his career.

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