Padma Awards is one of the highest civilian Awards of the country, are conferred in three categories, namely Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. The Awards are given in various disciplines/fields of activities, viz.- art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc. '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 Awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year.
These awards are conferred by the president of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/April every year. This year the president of India has approved conferment of 85 Padma Awards including two duo cases. The list comprises 3 Padma Vibhushan, 9 Padma Bhushan and 73 Padma Shri Awards. 14 of the awardees are women and the list also includes 16 person from the category of Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI and the Posthumous awardees.
