The Indian government has announced the Padma Awards 2026, recognizing exceptional contributions across various fields, including sports. The awards, announced on the eve of the 77th Republic Day, include five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards.
In the realm of sports, several prominent figures have been honored for their outstanding achievements. Tennis legend Vijay Amritraj was awarded the Padma Bhushan. Amritraj had previously been honored with the Arjuna Award in 1974 and the Padma Shri in 1983.
Cricketers Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur, along with hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia, have been conferred with the Padma Shri. Besides them, para high jumper Praveen Kumar, Baldev Singh, Bhagwandas Raikwar and K Pajanivel are also named as Padma Shri awardees. Baldev Singh is renowned for revolutionizing women's hockey in India. Vladimir Mestvirishvili of Georgia was also honored posthumously for his contribution to wrestling. He had trained several Olympic medalists.
Rohit Sharma, the former captain of the Indian men's cricket team, has had a stellar career. He received the Padma Shri after captaining India to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025. While he retired from Tests in 2025, he remained a key player in ODIs, scoring 650 runs in the format the previous year.
Harmanpreet Kaur, the current captain of the Indian women's cricket team, also received the Padma Shri. Kaur led the Indian women's cricket team to their maiden ODI World Cup title last year. Harmanpreet's journey reflects courage, conviction, and a strong will to challenge norms.
Savita Punia, the Indian women's hockey team's goalkeeper and former vice-captain, also earned the Padma Shri. She was the vice-captain during their historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Savita's father received the initial call informing her of the award and was very emotional.
The Padma Awards are among the highest civilian honors in India. The awards recognize distinguished service in various fields, including art, social work, public affairs, science, engineering, sports, and civil service. The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field.
The President of India approves the conferment of the Padma Awards, which are presented at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This year's awardees include a diverse group of individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
