The Padma Awards 2026 list has been officially reported by leading national media, highlighting 45 distinguished achievers, most of whom have been conferred the Padma Shri—India’s fourth-highest civilian honour. The announcement, made ahead of Republic Day 2026, celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions across social service, art, culture, public affairs, education, and grassroots innovation.
According to coverage by India TV, the recipients will be formally honoured by the President of India at a ceremonial investiture held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the coming months.
Key Highlights of Padma Awards 2026
- Total awardees announced: 45
- Primary category: Padma Shri
- Fields recognised: Social reform, folk & tribal arts, public service, education, healthcare, and community leadership
- Focus: Strong emphasis on grassroots contributors alongside nationally known figures
- Timing: Announcement made ahead of Republic Day 2026
Media reports note that this year’s list reflects the government’s continued effort to spotlight unsung heroes from rural and regional India, individuals whose work has created lasting impact at the community level.
What Makes Padma Awards 2026 Notable?
The Padma Awards are among India’s most respected civilian honours. The 2026 list stands out for its diversity—geographically, culturally, and professionally. From tribal welfare activists and folk artists to educators and social workers, the recipients represent India’s vast social fabric.
As highlighted by Times of India in related mentions, names such as Kailash Chand, Brij Lal Bhatt, and Dr. Shyam Sundar reflect a blend of traditional knowledge preservation and modern public service.
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Full Padma Shri Awardees List 2026
Below is the complete list of 45 Padma Shri awardees as published by India TV and cross-referenced with other national reports:
| No. | Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Anke Gowda |
| 2 | Armida Fernandes |
| 3 | Bhagwandas Raikar |
| 4 | Bhikhlya Ladkia Dhinda |
| 5 | Brij Lal Bhatt |
| 6 | Budri Thati |
| 7 | Charan Hembrom |
| 8 | Chiranjee Lal Yadav |
| 9 | Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya |
| 10 | Gaffaruddin Mewati Jogi |
| 11 | Haily War |
| 12 | Inderjit Singh Sidhu |
| 13 | K Pazhanivel |
| 14 | Kailash Chandra Pant |
| 15 | Khem Raj Sundriyal |
| 16 | Kollakkayli Devaki Amma ji |
| 17 | Kumaraswamy Thangaraj |
| 18 | Mahendra Kumar Mishra |
| 19 | Meer Hajibhai Kasambhai |
| 20 | Mohan Nagar |
| 21 | Naresh Chandra Dev Verma |
| 22 | Nilesh Vinodchandra Mandlewala |
| 23 | Nuruddin Ahmed |
| 24 | Othuvar Tiruthani Swaminathan |
| 25 | Padma Gurmeet |
| 26 | Pokhila Lekthepi |
| 27 | Punniyamurthy Natesan |
| 28 | R Krishnan |
| 29 | Raghupat Singh |
| 30 | Raghuveer Tukaram Khedkar |
| 31 | Rajastapathi Kaiiappa Gounder |
| 32 | Rama Reddy Mamidi |
| 33 | Ramchandra Godbole & Sunita Godbole |
| 34 | SG Sushila Amma |
| 35 | Sangyusang S Pongenor |
| 36 | Shafi Shouk |
| 37 | Shrirang Devba Lad |
| 38 | Shyam Sundar |
| 39 | Simanchal Patro |
| 40 | Suresh Hangawadi |
| 41 | Taga Ram Bhil |
| 42 | Techie Gubin |
| 43 | Thiruvarur Bhaktavatsalam |
| 44 | Vishva Bandhu |
| 45 | Yumnaam Jatra Singh |
When Will the Padma Awards 2026 Be Conferred?
While the names have been made public, the official government notification and investiture ceremony dates are expected to be confirmed soon. Traditionally, Padma awardees receive their honours from the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan between March and April.
For final confirmation and category-wise details, readers are advised to monitor updates on the official Padma Awards portal (padmaawards.gov.in).
The Padma Awards 2026 reaffirm India’s commitment to honouring excellence beyond fame—celebrating individuals whose dedication has quietly transformed lives and communities. As official confirmations roll in, this list stands as a powerful reminder that nation-building often happens far from the spotlight.