Padma Shri is also known as Padma Shree is the fourth-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, just after the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan, and the Padma Bhushan. It is granted by the Government of India every year on January 26th on the occasion of the Republic Day of India.
Facts About Padma Shri
- Established: 1954
- Category of: Padma Awards
- Type: National Civilian
- Country: India
- Presented by: Government of India
- Total Award was given: 3,005
History
The Padma Shri established in 1954 by the Government of India to citizens of India in recognition of their distinguished contribution in various fields of activity, including Arts, Education, Industry, Literature, Sports, Medicine, Science, Social Service, and Public Affairs.
It has also been awarded to some foreign personalities, but who have contributed in various ways to India. Applications can only be submitted online between 1 and 15 September of each year by citizens or organizations.
The selection committee is led by the Cabinet Secretary and is made up annually by the Prime Minister, the Secretary-General, the President’s Secretary, and four to six eminent members. The committee’s recommendations are submitted to the Prime Minister and President of India for approval.
As of 2020, 3,123 people have received this award.
Medal Appearance
The front of the medal contains the words Padma, meaning “lotus” in Sanskrit and Shri, a Sanskrit-derived equivalent for ” ‘Mr.’ or ‘Ms.’ “, which appear in Devanagari, above and below a lotus flower.
The geometric pattern on both sides is in burnished bronze. All embossing is in white gold. On the back is a platinum state emblem of India placed in the center, with India’s national motto, Satyamev Jayate, “सत्सत जयते” in Hindi (Truth always wins) in the alphabet Devanagari.
The decoration is worn by men on the left side of the chest, supported by a simple lotus pink ribbon one-quarter of an inch wide, and by women on the left shoulder, supported by a ribbon of the same color shaped like an arch.
Padma Shri Award Benefits
The Padma Shri award is just a civilian honor. The award has no cash allowance or any benefit in terms of rebate. But the government of India will pay a travel fee for the Padma Shri winners.