Awards and Honours

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option a

Explanation
Context: Recently, the President approved the conferment of 139 Padma Awards for the year 2025.

Option (a) is correct: The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service in any field, and it is the second-highest civilian award in India, given to individuals who have made significant contributions of a higher order to their respective fields.

Other incorrect options:
Option (b): Government servants, except doctors and scientists, are not eligible for the Padma Awards. However, there are guidelines that awardees must demonstrate exceptional service beyond their regular duties.

Option(c): The Padma Awards were first instituted in 1954, not in 1978. The highest civilian award in India is Bharat Ratna, not Padma Vibhushan.

Option (d): While it is possible for the Padma Awards to be given posthumously (if the nominee passes away before the announcement), they are not given posthumously in all cases. Many individuals receive the awards while still alive.