Overview of Padma Awards
Padma Awardees from Tamil Nadu: The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours, recognizing distinguished service in diverse fields. These awards are announced annually on the occasion of Republic Day. They are formally conferred by the President of India at a ceremonial function held in Rashtrapati Bhavan.
There are three categories under the Padma Awards hierarchy. These include Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, ranked in descending order of prestige. The awards acknowledge contributions across art, literature, science, social work, medicine, sports, and public affairs.
Static GK fact: The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954, making them one of the oldest civilian honours in independent India.
Tamil Nadu Representation in Padma Awards
In the recent list of Padma Award recipients, 14 personalities from Tamil Nadu have been honoured. This highlights the State’s continued contribution to national life through culture, service, and professional excellence. Tamil Nadu has traditionally maintained strong representation, especially in arts, literature, and public service.
Out of the total awardees from the State, none were selected for Padma Vibhushan, the highest civilian honour. This absence is notable, given Tamil Nadu’s historical presence in this category in earlier years. However, the State performed significantly well in the other two categories.
Padma Bhushan Awardees from Tamil Nadu
Among the 13 Padma Bhushan awardees announced nationwide, three recipients belong to Tamil Nadu. The Padma Bhushan is awarded for distinguished service of a high order. Recipients typically have long-standing national or international recognition in their respective domains.
Tamil Nadu’s presence in this category reflects excellence in areas such as classical arts, public administration, and intellectual contributions. The State has consistently produced individuals whose work has had a pan-Indian impact.
Static GK Tip: Padma Bhushan ranks below Padma Vibhushan but above Padma Shri in the official order of precedence.
Padma Shri Awardees from Tamil Nadu
At the Padma Shri level, 11 out of the 113 recipients across India are from Tamil Nadu. The Padma Shri is awarded for distinguished service in any field. This category usually sees the widest regional and sectoral diversity.
Tamil Nadu’s strong showing in Padma Shri awards reflects grassroots contributions and regional excellence. Awardees often include folk artists, educators, social workers, and professionals who have made sustained contributions at the community or State level.
Static GK fact: Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in India, after Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, and Padma Bhushan.
Constitutional and Administrative Aspects
The Padma Awards are not titles under Article 18 of the Indian Constitution. Awardees cannot use the honour as a prefix or suffix to their names. However, recipients are allowed to mention the award in biodata, visiting cards, and official records.
Recommendations for Padma Awards are invited from State governments, Union ministries, and the general public. Final selection is made by the Padma Awards Committee, which functions under the Prime Minister’s Office.
Static GK Tip: The Padma Awards Committee is headed by the Cabinet Secretary of India.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Padma Awardees from Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Total awardees from Tamil Nadu | 14 personalities |
| Padma Vibhushan recipients from TN | Nil |
| Padma Bhushan recipients from TN | 3 |
| Padma Shri recipients from TN | 11 |
| Occasion of announcement | Republic Day |
| Conferring authority | President of India |
| Year of institution | 1954 |
| Constitutional status | Not a title under Article 18 |
