Over 1,200 nominations received for Padma awards

More than 1,200 nominations have been received so far for the Padma awards given for work of distinction and exceptional achievement in different fields.

So far, 1,654 registrations have been made on the website, out of which 1,207 nominations or recommendations have been completed since the nomination process was opened on May 1, 2018, the Home ministry said in a statement today.

All citizens can make nominations or recommendation including self-nomination.

The last date for online nominations or recommendations for the Padma awards to be announced on the occasion of Republic Day, 2019 is September 15, 2018.

Nominations have been invited from central ministries, departments, states/UT administrations, Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan awardees, institutes of excellence as also from several other sources to enable broad-based consideration.

The home ministry communication on April 25 urged them to make concerted efforts in identifying talented persons whose excellence and achievements really deserve to be recognised, and make suitable nominations in their favour.

The nominations or recommendations for the Padma awards are being received online only on the Padma portal www.padmaawards.gov.in.

The nominations or recommendations should contain all relevant details specified in the format available on the above said website.

This includes a citation in narrative form (maximum 800 words), clearly bringing out the distinguished and exceptional achievements or service of the person recommended in her or his respective field and discipline.

While recommending a person online, it should be ensured that all the necessary details are filled properly, the statement said.

The Padma awards, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, are amongst the highest civilian awards of the country. Instituted in 1954, these awards are announced on the occasion of the Republic Day every year.

The award seeks to recognise 'work of distinction' and is given for distinguished and exceptional achievements and service in all fields and disciplines, such as, art, literature and education, sports, medicine, social work, science and engineering, public affairs, civil service, trade and industry etc.

All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these awards, it said.

Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of high order and 'Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field.

The ministry communication requested that efforts may be made to identify talented persons from amongst women, weaker sections of the society, SCs & STs, divyang persons, etc., who deserve to be considered for the award.