The first phase of the Padma Awards for 2026 will be conferred today at a Civil Investiture Ceremony आयोजित at the Ganatantra Mandap of Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Droupadi Murmu will present the awards to 66 recipients selected for the 2026 honours.
The ceremony is being conducted in two phases to honour individuals for contributions across various fields. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, several Union ministers, senior officials and invited dignitaries are expected to attend.
A total of 66 Padma Awards will be presented during the first Civil Investiture Ceremony, including two Padma Vibhushan, six Padma Bhushan and 58 Padma Shri awards. The remaining awards will be conferred during the second phase of the ceremony.
The Government of India announces the Padma Awards annually on the occasion of Republic Day. The honours are awarded to individuals for exceptional achievements and contributions in their respective fields and for their impact on society.
The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours after the Bharat Ratna. They recognise contributions in fields including art, literature, education, science, medicine, sports, social service, public affairs, trade, industry and other sectors. The awards are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri for distinguished contribution in any field.
For 2026, the President has approved a total of 131 Padma Awards, including five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri honours. The selected awardees include individuals from fields such as art, culture, science, public service and sports, along with individuals recognised for contributions at the grassroots level.
Experts said the Padma Awards recognise individual achievements and provide national recognition to those contributing to the country’s social and cultural development.
