Padma Awards 2026: 10 New Districts Recognized, Unsung Heroes Honored

• The Padma awards for 2026 feature winners from 10 districts recognized for the first time since Independence, showcasing a wider reach across India.
• 131 Padma awardees were selected from over 39,000 nominations through a rigorous evaluation process.
• Awardees represent 84 districts across 30 states and UTs, including Mandya, Betul, Parbhani, Bageshwar, Ranga Reddy, Dakshin Dinajpur, Nuapada, Dantewada, Eluru, and Deeg as first-time districts.
• The Modi government continues a bipartisan approach, honoring leaders like V S Achuthanandan and Shibu Soren, with over 18 political parties represented over 12 years.
• The awards celebrate 'ordinary Indians making extraordinary contributions,' including 19 inspirational women and achievers from diverse backgrounds like Mangala Kapoor and Armida Fernandez.

Why It Matters: Padma Awards 2026 expand reach, honoring diverse unsung heroes and first-time districts across India.