29 April 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Prime Minister attends the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I.

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), April 29, 2025)

Topic: GS 1– Modern Indian History: Contribution of individuals to national life, GS-4 :- Ethics and Integrity: Role of honour, recognition, and values in public life.

Context

The President of India, in the presence of the Prime Minister and other dignitaries, presided over the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on April 29, 2025. This annual event recognizes distinguished Indian citizens from various fields—public service, arts, literature, science, social work, and more—with the nation’s highest civilian honours, Padma Awards.

What is the Civil Investiture Ceremony?

• An official function organized by Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the President of India bestows the Padma Awards on recipients selected for that year.
• The awards are typically announced on Republic Day (January 26) and conferred in two investiture ceremonies at Durbar Hall, Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Attended by the Prime Minister, Vice President, Cabinet Ministers, Chief Ministers, and families of the awardees.
• It is a solemn national recognition of the values of selfless service, innovation, and excellence across India.

Overview of Awards

1. Bharat Ratna

• Highest civilian award of the Republic of India.
• Awarded for exceptional service towards the advancement of art, literature and science, and in recognition of public service of the highest order.
• Not necessarily annual; maximum of 3 recipients per year.
• Not awarded during the ceremony covered in this news.

2. Padma Vibhushan

• Second-highest civilian award.
• Given for exceptional and distinguished service in any field including service rendered by government servants.
• The award is “distinguished and exceptional”, often conferred on individuals of national or international stature.

3. Padma Bhushan

• Third in order of civilian awards.
• For distinguished service of a high order in any field.
• Recipients include scientists, educators, judges, and those in civil service and corporate leadership.

4. Padma Shri

• Fourth-highest civilian award.
• Awarded for distinguished service in any field.
• Recognizes grassroots achievers, social workers, tribal artists, farmers, innovators, and teachers.

Significance of the Awards

• Reflect India’s inclusive democratic spirit—honours are often conferred on unsung heroes, not just celebrities.
• Merit-based, not influenced by political or bureaucratic recommendation.
• Citizens from all backgrounds, religions, castes, and professions are eligible.
• The awards serve as moral incentives, upholding public ethics, dedication, and patriotism.

Key Highlights from the 2025 Ceremony-I

• 71 personalities were conferred awards across the three Padma categories.
• Notable awardees included:
  • Social workers from tribal and remote areas.
  • Medical professionals for their contribution to public health and rural service.
  • Artists and musicians who preserved and promoted regional art forms.
  • Environmentalists and scientists for innovation and conservation.

Institutional Mechanism of Selection

• Nominations are solicited from the general public, state governments, Union ministries, institutions, and via online platforms.
• A Padma Awards Committee, constituted by the Prime Minister and headed by the Cabinet Secretary, shortlists candidates.
• Final names are approved by the President of India.

Practice Question: Civilian honours like the Padma Awards not only recognize excellence but also serve as tools for social inspiration. Critically examine the significance of the Padma Awards in promoting inclusive nationalism and public serviceinIndia. (Answer in 250 words)

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