Padma Awards 2026 Conferred by President Droupadi Murmu

President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma Awards 2026 during a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on the evening of June 23, 2026. A total of 65 awards were conferred, which included two Padma Vibhushan, seven Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri honours.

Among the notable recipients were tennis icon Vijay Amritraj, accomplished actor Mammootty, renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik, and cricketer Rohit Sharma. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields.

The Government of India had announced the awards on the eve of Republic Day, detailing a total of 131 Padma Awards for the year. These awards are distinguished into three categories: Padma Vibhushan, awarded for exceptional service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of high order, and Padma Shri for notable contributions across various disciplines.

The awardees this year include a diverse range of 19 women and several posthumous recognitions. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, among others.

During the event, the Padma Vibhushan was awarded to K. T. Thomas, a former Supreme Court judge, for his contributions to public affairs, and to P. Narayanan, a noted Malayalam journalist for his work in literature and education. Alongside them, other prominent personalities such as industrialist S. K. M. Maeilanandhan and American oncologist Dattatreyudu Nori received the Padma Bhushan.

Cricketer Rohit Sharma received the Padma Shri, following his leadership in the latest T-20 World Cup victory, while hockey player Savita Punia was also honoured with the same award. The late Vladimir Mestvirishvili, who coached several Indian Olympic medallists, was recognised posthumously with the Padma Shri, awarded to his wife in his memory.

The Padma Awards, established in 1954, aim to honour distinguished achievements across various fields including art, literature, education, sports, and public service. Each year, the awards are a highlight of India’s civil recognition programme, aimed at celebrating the contributions of individuals who have significantly impacted society.