India marks its 76th Republic Day as Padma Awards recognize 139 distinguished personalities

India Celebrates 76th Republic Day with Grandeur, Padma Awards Honor 139 Exemplary Personalities

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with immense pride and patriotic fervor, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and democratic values. The highlight of this year’s celebrations was the announcement of the prestigious Padma Awards, which recognized 139 distinguished individuals for their exceptional contributions to society.  

The grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi was a spectacle of unity and diversity, featuring vibrant tableaux from various states, breathtaking performances by school children, and a display of India’s military prowess. French President Emmanuel Macron, the chief guest of the event, joined President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in witnessing the celebrations, symbolizing the strong Indo-French ties.  

This year’s Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian honors in the country, celebrated unsung heroes and luminaries from diverse fields. Among the awardees were social workers, artists, scientists, and entrepreneurs who have made significant impacts in their respective domains. Notably, the list included 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan, and 117 Padma Shri recipients.  

One of the most heartwarming stories was that of 85-year-old Tulsi Gowda, an environmentalist from Karnataka, who was honored with the Padma Shri for her lifelong dedication to forest conservation. Despite having no formal education, Gowda has planted and nurtured over 30,000 trees, earning her the title of “Encyclopedia of the Forest.”  

Another inspiring recipient was Dr. Ravi Kannan, a cancer surgeon from Assam, who was awarded the Padma Shri for providing affordable and accessible cancer care to thousands in rural areas. His selfless service has transformed the lives of countless patients and their families.  

The awards also recognized the contributions of international figures, such as Dr. Sankaran Kumar, a Singapore-based Indian-origin scientist, for his groundbreaking work in nanotechnology.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Republic Day address, emphasized the importance of recognizing such individuals who embody the spirit of India. “The Padma Awards are not just honors; they are a celebration of the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to make our nation stronger and more inclusive,” he said.  

As the day concluded with a dazzling display of fireworks, the celebrations served as a reminder of India’s journey as a democratic republic and the collective efforts of its people to uphold its values. The Padma Awards, in particular, highlighted the extraordinary stories of ordinary citizens, inspiring the nation to strive for excellence and unity.