India Announces 131 Padma Awards and 70 Gallantry Honours for 2026 Ahead of Republic Day
New Delhi — On the eve of Republic Day, the nation witnessed the announcement of two of its highest symbols of honour and pride as the Central Government officially declared the Padma Awards and Gallantry Awards for the year 2026.
Veteran actor Dharmendra has been posthumously selected for the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to Indian cinema.
Renowned violinist Professor N. Rajam, who dedicated over four decades of service to Banaras Hindu University, has also been chosen for the Padma Vibhushan.
A former Dean of the Faculty of Performing Arts at BHU, she dedicated the honour to her gurus and to the city of Kashi.
Among the gallantry honours, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station, will be conferred with the nation’s highest peacetime bravery award — the Ashok Chakra.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, a total of 131 Padma Awards will be presented this year, including:
- 5 Padma Vibhushan
- 13 Padma Bhushan
- 113 Padma Shri
The list features distinguished personalities from diverse fields, including women achievers, foreign nationals, NRIs, PIOs, and OCI category recipients.
Notably, 16 awards will be presented posthumously, reflecting the government’s continued effort to honour unsung heroes who made extraordinary contributions without seeking recognition.
In addition, the government has announced 70 Gallantry Awards for acts of exceptional bravery. These include:
- 1 Ashok Chakra
- 3 Kirti Chakras
- 13 Shaurya Chakras
- 1 Sena Medal with Bar
- 44 Sena Medals
Six of these gallantry honours will be awarded posthumously.
Among the Kirti Chakra recipients are Major Arshdeep Singh, Naib Subedar Doleswar Subba, and Group Captain Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, recognised for their outstanding courage and service to the nation.
The announcements highlight India’s commitment to celebrating excellence, sacrifice, and service — from celebrated national icons to silent heroes who shaped the country through dedication and bravery.