The Padma Awards 2026 recognise 131 people from across India and beyond, in a list that ranges from a billionaire banker to a retired police officer who sweeps the streets each morning.
Announced on the eve of Republic Day and conferred at ceremonies at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the awards offer one of the clearest annual snapshots of the achievements the country chooses to celebrate.
This year's list spans business, science, the arts, sport, medicine, literature and social work, and once again gives prominent space to grassroots figures alongside the famous.
The Padma Awards are among India's highest civilian honours, conferred in three tiers.
The Padma Vibhushan is given for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field.
