New Delhi buzzed with anticipation on Sunday as the list of Padma Awards 2026 recipients surfaced ahead of Republic Day. Sources confirm names like Kailash Chand, Braj Lal Bhatt, and Dr. Shyam Sundar among the honorees, though official confirmation from the government is pending.
These awards celebrate extraordinary contributions from ordinary citizens who have overcome immense personal hardships, struggles, and tragedies. Hailing from marginalized communities, Dalits, tribal groups, and remote regions, these individuals turned adversity into action, dedicating their lives to societal good.
From improving healthcare to advancing education, livelihoods, sanitation, sustainable development, and empowering the vulnerable, their impacts are profound. Doctors tackling hemophilia, neonatologists establishing India’s first human milk bank, guardians of indigenous heritage, and promoters of national unity in border states feature prominently.
Many have preserved tribal languages, traditional martial arts, endangered crafts, and handloom traditions. Others have championed ecological conservation and cleanliness drives, showcasing unwavering courage and commitment.
This year’s list spotlights numerous unsung heroes: Anke Gowda, Armida Fernandes, Bhagwandas Raikwar, Bhiklya Ladkya Dhinda, Brij Lal Bhat, Budhri Tati, Charan Hembram, Chiranjilal Yadav, Dharmik Lal Chunilal Pandya, Gafaruddin Mewati Jogi, Hailey War, Inderjeet Singh Sidhu, K Pajanivel, Kailash Chandra Pant, Khem Raj Sundriyal, Kollakkayil Devki Amma Ji, Kumarswami Thangraj, Mahendra Kumar Mishra, Meer Haji Bhai Kasam Bhai, Mohan Nagar, Naresh Chandra Dev Verma, Nilesh Vinodchand Mandlevwala, Nooruddin Ahmad, Othuvur Thiruthani Swaminathan, Padma Gurmet, Pokhila Lekthepi, Punniyamoorthy Natesan, R Krishnan, Raghu Pat Singh, Raghuvir Tukaram Khedkar, Rajastapati Kaliyappa Gounder, Rama Reddy Mamidi, Ramchandra Godbole and Sunita Godbole, S G Sushilamma, Sangyusang S Pongener, Shafi Shauk, Shrirang Devaba Lad, Shyam Sundar, Simanchal Patro, Suresh Hangavadi, Taga Ram Bhil, Techi Gubin, Thiruvarur Bakthavatsalam, Vish Bandhu Ok and Yumnam Jatra Singh.
Their stories inspire a nation, reminding us that true heroism lies in selfless service.