Padma Awards 2026: 45 Unsung Heroes Honoured Before Republic Day
Padma Awards 2026 announced with 45 recipients, honouring unsung heroes for distinguished service across India.
Ahead of Republic Day 2026, the Government of India has announced the recipients of the prestigious Padma Awards, among the country’s highest civilian honours. As per official sources, a total of 45 individuals have been selected this year for their distinguished and selfless contributions across diverse fields. The awards are traditionally announced on the eve of Republic Day.
The Padma Awards are conferred in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—and recognise exceptional service in areas such as art, social work, public affairs, medicine, education, literature, and environmental conservation. The 2026 list places strong emphasis on recognising grassroots contributors whose work has largely remained outside the public spotlight.
This year’s awardees include individuals from marginalised and backward communities, Dalit groups, primitive tribes, and those living in remote and challenging regions of the country. Many recipients have devoted decades to serving women, children, the specially-abled, and tribal populations, while working to improve healthcare access, education, sanitation, livelihoods, and sustainability.
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Several honourees are noted for addressing local and highly specific challenges—ranging from doctors tackling rare medical conditions at the community level to pioneers preserving indigenous languages, traditional art forms, and tribal martial arts. Others have played a key role in safeguarding ecological wealth, promoting cleanliness, and strengthening national integration in border and remote states.
The list also highlights individuals who have overcome personal hardships and tragedies, yet continued their commitment to public service with resilience and dedication. Their work reflects quiet leadership and consistent service, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless people without seeking recognition.
Among the awardees, Rajastapathi Kaliappa Goundar has been conferred the Padma Shri 2026 in the Art category under a special arrangement. Collectively, the Padma Awardees of 2026 embody the spirit of everyday Indians whose silent contributions form the backbone of the nation’s social and cultural progress.
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