President Droupadi Murmu will present the Padma Awards 2026 to distinguished individuals during the Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Among the 65 awardees are former Union Minister Shibu Soren, Tennis star Vijay Amritraj, paediatrician Dr Armida Fernandez, Professor Mangala Kapoor, actor Mammootty, and singer Alka Yagnik.
Some awardees expressed their excitement for the ceremony, with Vijay Amritraj feeling honored and grateful for the recognition. He emphasized the importance of nurturing children’s talents and appreciated the government’s support for sports development.
RVS Mani, set to receive the Padma Shri for civil service, expressed pride in his selection and highlighted the significance of his work in civil and government service. He credited the government for acknowledging his integrity with this honor.
Dr Armida Fernandez, recognized for her contributions to health, praised the government’s encouragement of good work and shared that the award symbolizes a collective effort. Professor Mangala Kapoor, honored for her achievements, reflected on her journey and the challenges she overcame, emphasizing the significance of the Padma Shri for women like her.
Brijlal Bhatt, dedicated to social service and cultural preservation, expressed pride in receiving the honor from the President in the presence of dignitaries. Hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, he highlighted his fulfilling career in agriculture.
The Padma Awards cover various fields like arts, social work, public affairs, science, sports, and civil service, recognizing excellence across disciplines.
