Padma Vibhushan
Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India, following the Bharat Ratna. It recognizes exceptional and distinguished service in various fields, including government service. Established on 2 January 1954, the Padma Vibhushan is part of the broader Padma Awards system, which also includes the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri.[1]
Origin and Classification
The Padma Awards were created by the Government of India in 1954 to honor civilians for their contributions to different disciplines. Initially, there were three categories: Pahela Varg (Class I), Dusra Varg (Class II), and Tisra Varg (Class III). In 1955, these categories were renamed Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
Eligibility and Criteria
The Padma Vibhushan is given for “exceptional and distinguished service” in fields such as the arts, literature, science, public affairs, civil service, social work, sports, medicine, trade, and industry, among others. It is open to everyone, regardless of race, occupation, position, or gender. The award can also be given posthumously, and foreign nationals are eligible as well.
Design and Insignia
The Padma Vibhushan medal is a circular bronze medallion, 35 mm in diameter and 3.1 mm thick. On one side, it has a centrally placed lotus flower with the words "Padma" and "Vibhushan" written above and below in Devanagari script. On the other side, it features the State Emblem of India and the national motto, Satyameva Jayate. The medal hangs from a pink ribbon with a broad white stripe in the center.
Announcement and Ceremony
The Padma Vibhushan awardees are announced each year on the eve of Republic Day (26 January). The President of India presents the awards at a ceremony typically held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, usually in March or April. Recipients receive a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and the medal.
Notable Recipients
Since its inception, many notable personalities have received the Padma Vibhushan. Some of the well-known recipients include:
- Satyajit Ray (filmmaking)
- Amartya Sen (economics)
- Verghese Kurien (dairy industry)
- A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (science and engineering)
- Lata Mangeshkar (music)
- Zakir Hussain (tabla maestro)
- Narendra Nathwani, Vikram Sarabhai, and Homi Bhabha (scientific research)
Foreign Recipients
The Padma Vibhushan has also been given to foreign nationals for their contributions to strengthening India's relations or promoting global peace and culture. These include:
- Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Pakistan, 1987)
- Zubin Mehta (Israel, 2001)
- Shinzo Abe (Japan, posthumously in 2023)
Statistics
As of 2023, more than 330 individuals have received the Padma Vibhushan. It remains one of the most respected and prestigious honors in India. While the award is not typically given posthumously, there are exceptions for special cases.
Controversies
The Padma Awards have faced controversies regarding selection criteria, transparency, and claims of favoritism. The Government of India asserts that awards are recommended by a Padma Awards Committee formed by the Prime Minister, and the selection process is thorough and impartial.
Importance and Legacy
The Padma Vibhushan, along with the other Padma awards, is essential in recognizing contributions to Indian society and the world. It symbolizes national gratitude and inspires others to strive for excellence in their fields.