From Bus Conductor to Human Milk Bank Pioneer: India's 45 'Unsung' Heroes To Be Conferred With Padma Awards

India has chosen 45 civilians for the coveted Padma Awards honour this year, under the ‘Unsung heroes’ category, for their distinguished and unwavering service to the nation. A former bus conductor who set up the world's largest free-access library, a paediatrician who formed Asia's first human milk bank, and a 90-year-old rare musical instrument player were among 45 individuals from across India chosen for the Padma Shri award in the category on the occasion ofRepublic Day, sources told PTI on Sunday.Among the names is Anke Gowda, once a bus conductor, set up the world's largest free-access library, 'Pustak Mane', comprising more than two million books in 20 languages along with rare manuscripts. The 75-year-old bibliophile from Haralahalli

village near Mysuru in Karnataka has been chosen for the Padma Shri for his unique effort to empower learners across India.Joining him will be Armida Fernandes, the Mumbai-based paediatrician who set up Asia'a first human milk bank, improving the survival prospects of infants, Bundeli war art trainer Bhagwandas Raikwar from Madhya Pradesh, Bhiklya Ladakya Dhinda, a 90-year old tribal Tarpa player – a musical instrument made of bottle gourd and bamboo – from Maharashtra, and distinguished social worker from Jammu and Kashmir, Brij Lal Bhat, among others.Also Read: What India's Republic Day Signals That Islamabad Can’t Ignore

1,000 servicemen awarded with gallantry medals

The Padma Awards are one of the country’s highest civilian honours, announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. Unsung heroes are those who serve as the inspirational, key driving force behind any revolutionary change. These individuals have worked rigorously and steadfastly in their respective fields to bring lasting changes and enable a better life for fellow citizens, without a spotlight.These awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (distinguished service of higher order) and Padma Shri (distinguished service). It seeks to recognise achievements in all fields of activity or disciplines where an element of public service is involved.Earlier in the day, close to 1,000 personnel from police, fire, home guard and Civil Defence Services were awarded gallantry and service medals on the eve of Republic Day.(With PTI inputs)