In a move celebrated across the nation, the Government of India has announced the Padma Awards 2026, with a significant focus on recognizing the "unsung heroes" from the country's hinterlands. These awards, announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, aim to honor individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to society, often away from the public eye. This year's list features a diverse group of individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving others, preserving indigenous heritage, and promoting various fields such as art, education, healthcare, and social work.
The awards recognize those who have overcome personal hardships to serve society. This year, the government has selected 45 people for the Padma Shri award. These individuals come from various backgrounds and have made significant impacts in their respective fields.
Among the notable awardees are individuals recognized for their work in preserving and promoting traditional arts and culture. Taga Ram Bheel from Rajasthan is being honored for reviving the fading folk instrument Algoza. Bhiklya Ladakya Dhinda, a 90-year-old tribal Tarpa player from Maharashtra, is recognized for his dedication to the musical instrument made of bottle gourd and bamboo. Also, Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya from Gujarat has been awarded for his work related to 'Maanbhatt', a traditional Gujarati performing art form.
The list also includes individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of education and literature. Anke Gowda, a 75-year-old bibliophile from Karnataka, is being recognized for setting up Pustak Mane, a library with over two million books in 20 languages. Charan Hembram, a Santhali author-composer from Odisha, is also among the awardees.
Healthcare is another area where "unsung heroes" have been recognized. Armida Fernandez, a Mumbai-based pediatrician, is being honored for establishing Asia's first human milk bank. The awards also acknowledge those working on local health challenges, such as doctors addressing haemophilia.
Social workers who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of society also feature prominently on the list. Brij Lal Bhat from Jammu and Kashmir is being recognized for his social work. Hally War from Meghalaya is another awardee in the social work category. Budhri Tati is being awarded for setting up schools in the Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh.
The Padma Awards 2026 also recognize individuals who have contributed to environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture. Kollakkayil Devaki Amma G from Kerala is being honored for her work in afforestation.
Prime Minister Modi congratulated the winners, stating that their dedication and service enrich the fabric of society and inspire future generations. The Modi government has focused on recognizing talents from the hinterlands, with this year's awardees coming from 84 districts across 30 states and Union Territories. Ten of these districts are being represented on the list for the first time since Independence.
The Padma Awards, one of India's highest civilian honors, continue to shine a light on the extraordinary contributions of ordinary citizens. The awards are presented by the President of India in March or April.
