New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) On Republic Day, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed his delight that eight individuals from Karnataka have been honored with the nation's highest civilian awards, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, emphasizing that this recognition elevates the pride of the Kannada community.

Minister Joshi personally congratulated the awardees via phone, stating that it is a significant achievement that eight remarkable individuals have been selected this year for these awards, which honor those who have made outstanding contributions across diverse sectors in India.

He highlighted that Shatavadhani R. Ganesh, an expert in the Avadhana Bhajana art, has been awarded the Padma Bhushan for 2026, marking a prestigious acknowledgment of the Bhajana tradition. Additionally, the posthumous Padma Shri awarded to T.T. Jagannathan for his impactful work in trade and industry stands out as a significant tribute.

Joshi pointed out that social worker S.G. Sushilamma, founder of the Sumangali Seva Ashram in Bengaluru, has dedicated decades to advocating for women’s empowerment, child protection, and rural development. Likewise, Dr. Suresh Hanagavadi, a professor at JJM Medical College and affiliated with the Haemophilia Society in Davanagere, has made invaluable contributions to society, and these awards serve as fitting recognition for their efforts.

He expressed joy that aerospace scientist Shubha Venkatesh Iyengar, book lover Ankegowda, Shashi Shekhar Vempati, and Prabhakar Basavaprabhu Kore have also been chosen for these prestigious awards in literature and education. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi mentioned that he extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the Padma awardees directly.

Former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai conveyed his congratulations on X, stating, "Heartfelt congratulations to social worker S.G. Sushilamma, founder of Sumangali Seva Ashram, KLE institution chief Dr. Prabhakar Kore, and all the other esteemed personalities recognized with the prestigious Padma awards by the Central government."

"Kudos also to Shatavadhani R. Ganesh, who is exceptionally skilled in the Avadhana art; book enthusiast Ankegowda; Shashi Shekhar Vempati for his contributions to education and literature; Shubha Venkatesh Iyengar; Dr. Suresh Hanagavadi for his medical achievements; and T.T. Jagannathan, awarded the Padma Shri for his accomplishments in trade and commerce," he remarked.

"I extend my gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for recognizing and honoring individuals who serve selflessly, akin to unseen seeds, by awarding them the esteemed Padma honors," Bommai added.