New Delhi witnessed a moment of national pride on the eve of Republic Day as the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the prestigious Padma Awards, recognizing excellence across diverse fields. Among the 131 distinguished recipients, the trade and industry category shone brightly with four prominent business leaders.
Uday Kotak, founder and director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, has been conferred the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor. His visionary leadership has transformed Kotak Mahindra into a banking powerhouse, driving financial innovation and economic growth for decades.
Joining him in the Padma Shri list are Ashok Khade, founder and MD of Maharashtra-based Das Offshore Engineering Pvt Ltd, a key player in the shipping sector, and Satyanarayan Nuwal, founder of Solar Industries, a private defense manufacturing firm contributing significantly to India’s self-reliance in defense.
In a posthumous tribute, TT Jagannathan of Prestige, renowned for revolutionizing kitchen appliances in Indian households, receives the Padma Shri. His legacy continues to impact everyday lives through innovative products.
The awards breakdown includes five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri recipients. Notably, 19 women, six foreign/NRI/PIO/OCI individuals, and 16 posthumous awards highlight the inclusive spirit. Padma Awards, second only to Bharat Ratna, celebrate extraordinary service in arts, literature, business, social service, medicine, education, and public affairs.
President of India will present these honors in ceremonial events at Rashtrapati Bhavan, typically held in March or April. As India marks its 75th Republic Day, these awards underscore the nation’s commitment to honoring unsung heroes who shape its progress.