The announcement follows tradition, with medals set to be conferred in a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this year.
Among the honours this year, numerous individuals have been selected for the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award, recognising distinguished service of a high order. The 2026 list features the inclusion of unsung heroes whose grassroots efforts and long-standing contributions have had a deep impact on local communities. Sources indicate that approximately 45 Padma Shri awards were conferred under this category.
Padma Shri 2026 Awardees Full List
While the complete official list is yet to be published on the government portal, the following names have been reported from initial announcements and news agencies:
Unsung Heroes
Anke Gowda (Karnataka) – Literature & Education
Armida Fernandes (Maharashtra) – Social Service
Naresh Chandra Debbarma (Tripura) - Literature & Education
Mohan Nagar (Madhya Pradesh) – Enviormentalist
Mahendra Kumar Mishra (Odisha) - Literature & Education
Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai (Gujarat) - Art
About Padma Awards
The Padma Awards — consisting of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri — are conferred annually to recognise distinguished service and achievements in any field of human endeavour. The honours are announced on the eve of Republic Day and later presented by the President of India at a ceremonial event.
In addition to Padma Shri awards, the 2026 honours also include recipients of Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for exceptional service, covering a diverse range of contributions from the judiciary and arts to sports and public affairs. Government sources say the final official Padma Awards list will be uploaded on the official awards portal following the announcement.
How the Padma Shri Honours Are Decided
- Nominations are received from citizens and institutions nationwide via the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal.
- A committee constituted by the Prime Minister reviews nominations and recommends names to the President.
- The selection reflects contributions demonstrating public service, excellence and sustained impact.
