New Delhi: In India, on January 26 every year, the Republic Day is celebrated to commemorate the Constitution’s adoption which transformed our country from a Dominion to a Republic, heralding a new journey in the history of the land. On November 26, 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Constitution and it came into effect on January 26, 1950. On Republic Day, parades, political speeches, cultural events and ceremonies take place all over the country. On the eve of Republic Day, the Indian President gives various civilian Padma Awards. In 1954, the awards were established and are awarded in three categories in decreasing order of precedence.
The civilian awards given by the President
Padma Vibhushan
After the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan is India’s second-highest civilian award. It was established on January 2, 1954, and is given for distinguished and exceptional service. Everyone is eligible for it irrespective of race, occupation, position or sex. However, government servants including those working with public sector undertakings, except doctors and scientists, are not eligible for these Awards. Its first recipients were Nandalal Bose, Satyendra Nath Bose, Zakir Husain, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, V. K. Krishna Menon and Balasaheb Gangadhar Kher.
Padma Bhushan
The Padma Bhushan is India’s third-highest civilian award. It was instituted on the same day as Padma Vibhushan and is given for distinguished performance irrespective of race, sex, occupation and position. Even government servants including doctors and scientists are eligible for the award, but not those working with the public sector undertakings.
Padma Shri
The Padma Shri is India’s fourth-highest civilian award. It was instituted on the same day as the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan, and it is conferred in recognition of distinguished contribution in various spheres of activity. Also, it has been awarded to some distinguished individuals who were not Indian citizens but did contribute in various ways to India.
The awards comprise of a certificate and a medallion and no cash allowances, benefits, or special concessions. These awards are considered extremely prestigious and their importance increases since they are given by the President on the occasion of the Republic Day.
The Republic Day celebrations in India include the prestigious Padma Awards, presented by the President. These civilian honors, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, recognize distinguished service across various fields. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
