Padma Awards 2026: J&K’s Brij Lal Bhat, Prof Shafi Shauq awarded Padma Shri

New Delhi, Jan 25: The President of India has approved the conferment of 131 Padma Awards for 2026, announced on the occasion of Republic Day, recognising individuals for distinguished service across a wide range of fields.

The awards include five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri honours. Among the recipients are 19 women awardees, 16 posthumous honours, and six awardees from the foreign/NRI/OCI category, reflecting the diversity and national reach of the honours.

Jammu and Kashmir has figured among the Padma Shri awardees, with Brij Lal Bhat being honoured for his contributions to social work. A long-time social activist, Bhat has been recognised for his sustained efforts in community welfare and public service.

Renowned academic and scholar Prof. Shafi Shauq has also been awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution to the fields of literature and education, marking a significant recognition of his scholarly work and contribution to intellectual discourse.

From Ladakh, Dr Padma Gurmet has received the Padma Shri for her services in medicine, a recognition widely hailed as a milestone for the Union Territory. Dr Gurmet has been instrumental in advancing healthcare services in the region, particularly in challenging terrains and underserved areas.

The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honours, are conferred annually in three categories—Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. The awards recognise achievements in disciplines including art, literature, education, social work, medicine, science, public affairs and sports.

The awards will be presented by the President of India at ceremonial functions to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this year.