Padma awards have always been political. “Distinguished personalities” is an arbitrary criterion, so people who are pushed by certain lobbies will stand to gain. It’s a little disappointing that a disproportionate amount of awards have gone to the poll-bound states. For instance, in 2022, late BJP leader Kalyan Singh and Congress veteran Ghulam Nabi Azad have been selected for the Padma Bhushan. The Padma awards are the highest civilian honours announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. The 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) in any field. Padma awards are progressively being given to low-profile society changers most of whom hardly bother about the recognition. Such awards are rewards conferred for the recognition of commendable service delivered to the nation. So, it becomes very necessary for the government to acknowledge such service and give it due recognition.
