Padma Shri

Padma Shri India IIIe Klasse

Emblem of India

Padma Shri Ribbon

Kirti Chakra ribbon

IND Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak ribbon

Padmasree award certificate

Padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award in the Republic of India, following the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan, and the Padma Bhushan. Established on January 2, 1954, by the President of India, it is awarded to citizens of India in recognition of their distinguished contribution in various spheres of activity including the Arts, Education, Industry, Literature, Science, Sports, Medicine, Social Service and Public Affairs. It has also been awarded to some distinguished individuals who were not citizens of India but did contribute in various ways to India.

The award seeks to recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service is involved. The Padma Shri is awarded by the President of India at a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan usually around March or April every year.

Eligibility and Nominations

The Padma Shri is open to all persons without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex. The Government of India receives recommendations for the award from the state governments, union territory administrations, central ministries, departments, the armed forces, and also from private individuals and institutions. All recommendations are placed before the Padma Awards Committee, which is constituted by the Prime Minister every year.

Design of the Award

The Padma Shri award consists of a medallion and a certificate signed by the President of India. The medallion is made of bronze and is embossed with a lotus flower, the national flower of India, in the center. The name of the award is inscribed in Hindi and English on the reverse side along with the year of the award. The recipients are also given a small replica of the medallion which they can wear during official ceremonies.

Notable Recipients

Over the years, the Padma Shri has been awarded to a diverse group of individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Notable recipients include:

- A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (Science & Engineering), who later became the President of India - Sachin Tendulkar (Sports), one of the greatest cricketers of all time - Viswanathan Anand (Sports), world chess champion - Lata Mangeshkar (Arts), legendary playback singer - Satyajit Ray (Arts), world-renowned filmmaker - Mary Kom (Sports), Olympic boxer - Sundar Pichai (Trade and Industry), CEO of Google

Controversies

Like any civilian award, the Padma Shri has not been without its controversies. There have been instances where the selection of recipients has been criticized for perceived political bias or lack of transparency in the selection process. However, the award continues to be held in high esteem by the public and the recipients alike.

See Also

- Bharat Ratna - Padma Vibhushan - Padma Bhushan - List of Padma Shri award recipients

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