What Did PM Modi Say About the Inspiring Life Journeys of Padma Awardees?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Modi's presence at the 'Civil Investiture Ceremony-II' highlights the remarkable contributions of 69 Padma awardees. This year's awards reflect India's rich cultural and humanitarian diversity, making it a true people's honor.
Key Takeaways
- 69 individuals awarded at the Padma Awards ceremony.
- Posthumous honors highlight lasting legacies.
- Significant representation of women among awardees.
- Padma Awards celebrate diverse contributions across sectors.
- Government efforts aim to democratize these prestigious awards.
New Delhi, May 27 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the ‘Civil Investiture Ceremony-II’ at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where 69 distinguished individuals were awarded the Padma Awards.
“I was present at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II, where the prestigious Padma Awards were given. The contributions of the Padma awardees to society are remarkable. Their life stories are profoundly inspiring,” the Prime Minister shared on X.
Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu awarded Padma Awards to 69 exceptional individuals who excelled in various domains such as art, literature, education, public affairs, medicine, social work, science, sports, and industry.
The ceremony also saw the attendance of Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and other notable figures.
This event marked the second phase of the Padma Awards ceremony for 2025.
The Padma Awards, which are among the highest civilian recognitions in India, are awarded in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. This year, a total of 139 Padma awardees were announced on the eve of Republic Day.
In this phase, there were three Padma Vibhushan, nine Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri awardees. The ceremony held special significance with 13 posthumous recognitions, honoring legends who made a lasting impact in their fields.
One of the most touching moments was the posthumous award of the Padma Vibhushan to late Bhojpuri and folk singer Dr. Sharda Sinha, whose music deeply resonated with the essence of the Indian heartland.
Other Padma Vibhushan recipients included former Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar and classical dancer Kumudini Lakhia (posthumously).
The Padma Bhushan awardees featured social activist Sadhvi Ritambhara, known for her involvement in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, actor-politician Nandamuri Balakrishna, and acclaimed journalist and author A. Surya Prakash.
Posthumous Padma Bhushan honorees included legendary singer Pankaj Udhas, veteran politician Manohar Joshi, and economist Bibek Debroy, along with renowned Malayalam writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair and Japanese industrialist Osamu Suzuki, who played a crucial role in Suzuki's partnership with India.
The largest number of accolades were awarded in the Padma Shri category, with 57 individuals recognized for their grassroots and innovative efforts across the nation.
Significantly, 23 of the recipients were women, highlighting the increasing acknowledgment of female excellence in diverse fields.
This year’s ceremony embodies the ethos of “nation first, people first”, with awardees showcasing India’s cultural, scientific, and humanitarian richness. The government's initiative to make the Padma Awards more accessible underscores their nature as a true people’s honor, celebrating not just fame, but impactful service.
Point of View
The Padma Awards Ceremony is a powerful reminder of the contributions made by individuals from diverse backgrounds. These awards not only celebrate personal achievements but also inspire others to serve and uplift society. The recognition of women and grassroots efforts reflects a growing inclusivity that aligns with our national values.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Padma Awards?
The Padma Awards are among the highest civilian honors in India, awarded for exceptional contributions in various fields including art, literature, public service, and more.
Who was honored at the recent ceremony?
At the recent ceremony, 69 individuals received Padma Awards for their remarkable contributions across diverse domains, including three Padma Vibhushan, nine Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri awardees.
What is the significance of posthumous awards?
Posthumous awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions during their lifetime, ensuring their legacy is recognized and celebrated even after their passing.
How are Padma Award recipients selected?
Recipients are selected based on the recommendations received from various sources and the final decision is made by the Government of India.
What does 'nation first, people first' mean in this context?
This phrase emphasizes the importance of prioritizing national interests and the well-being of citizens, which is reflected in the efforts to recognize outstanding contributions to society through the Padma Awards.
