President Droupadi Murmu will confer the Padma Awards 2026 during the Civil Investiture Ceremony scheduled to take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 25 in New Delhi. The ceremony will honour several distinguished personalities for their contributions across multiple fields, including arts, literature, education, medicine, sports, social work, and public affairs.

According to official information, 66 Padma Awards are expected to be presented during the first phase of the ceremony. The awards include the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, which are among the highest civilian honours in India. The Padma Awards are announced every year on the eve of Republic Day and recognise individuals who have made exceptional contributions in their respective fields. Instituted in 1954, the awards continue to acknowledge both nationally known personalities and grassroots changemakers whose work has created a significant social impact.

Several prominent dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior Union ministers, and other constitutional authorities, are expected to attend the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This year’s awardees reportedly include artists, scientists, educators, social workers, and sportspersons from different parts of the country. Many recipients are being recognised for years of dedicated service and contribution to society. The government had earlier announced a total of 131 Padma Awards for 2026. The remaining recipients are expected to receive their honours during another investiture ceremony later this year.

The Padma Awards are divided into three categories — Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in various disciplines. Over the decades, the awards have become one of the country’s most respected symbols of national recognition.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.