While addressing the Lower House on Tuesday, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said that Padma Awards have not been conferred based on biasness or lobbying.
In a written reply, Rai also added, "The award is presented only to those who sacrifice and make efforts to do extraordinary works and establish themselves in the various streams to become an example for the society."
According to Rai, as many as "272 foreigners, Non- Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India and Persons of Indian Origin have been conferred Padma awards since its inception in 1954."
He also told the Lok Sabha that any person without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex is eligible for the Padma awards. Serving government servants, including those working with public sector undertakings, except doctors and scientists, are not eligible for the awards.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app