The Padma Awards 2026 honour 131 individuals across diverse fields, reflecting India’s evolving journey. With notable representation in science, engineering, and medicine, this year’s list highlights innovation alongside tradition. The awards include five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri, with 19 women, six foreign nationals, and 16 posthumous recognitions.
Announced on January 25, 2026, the Padma Awards once again showcase India’s balance between heritage and modernity. While stalwarts from art, literature, and public affairs were honoured, the data reveals a significant rise in recognition for science, engineering, and medicine fields that together accounted for nearly 20% of awardees, the highest share in a decade.
This year’s list includes luminaries such as Dharmendra Singh Deol (posthumous, Art), N. Rajam (Art), and Alka Yagnik (Art), alongside innovators in medicine and engineering. The inclusion of six foreign nationals/persons of Indian origin underscores India’s global cultural and scientific footprint.
The awards, instituted in 1954, continue to evolve, reflecting the nation’s aspirations—from celebrating artistic excellence to acknowledging contributions in cutting-edge research and healthcare.
Key Highlights
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Total Awards: 131 (5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, 113 Padma Shri).
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Representation: 19 women, 6 foreign nationals/PIOs, 16 posthumous honours.
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Fields Rising: Science (11 awardees), Medicine (15 awardees) - highest in over a decade.
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Cultural Icons: Dharmendra, Mammootty, Alka Yagnik among recipients.
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Historical Context: Awards instituted in 1954, evolving to reflect India’s modern priorities.
Sources: Swarajya, Mint, Padma Awards Official List (MHA)