Major National Awards and Honours Presented by President Droupadi Murmu

## Introduction

Awards and honours play a crucial role in recognizing individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society, the nation, and humanity. In India, the President of India serves as the highest constitutional authority responsible for conferring many of the country’s most prestigious awards and decorations.

President Droupadi Murmu, the 15th President of India, has continued the tradition of honouring distinguished individuals from diverse fields including public service, literature, science, education, sports, medicine, social work, arts, and national security. These awards recognize excellence, inspire future generations, and highlight the achievements of individuals who contribute significantly to India’s progress.

For students preparing for SSC, UPSC, Banking, Railway, Defence, State PSC, and other competitive examinations, knowledge of national awards and honours is an important part of current affairs and general awareness.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the major national awards and honours presented by President Droupadi Murmu and their significance in modern India.

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## Role of the President in National Awards

The President of India acts as the official authority for conferring many national honours and decorations.

The President presents awards during special ceremonies held at:

* Rashtrapati Bhavan
* National events
* Investiture ceremonies

These awards recognize exceptional achievements and service to the nation.

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# Bharat Ratna

## India’s Highest Civilian Award

The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian honour in India.

It is awarded for exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour.

### Fields Covered

* Public Service
* Arts
* Literature
* Science
* Sports
* Social Service

### Significance

The Bharat Ratna symbolizes the nation’s highest recognition for extraordinary contributions to society and humanity.

### Exam Importance

Frequently asked in:

* UPSC
* SSC
* Banking Exams
* Railway Exams
* Defence Exams

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# Padma Awards

The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honours.

They are announced annually and presented by the President of India.

## Categories of Padma Awards

### Padma Vibhushan

Awarded for exceptional and distinguished service.

### Padma Bhushan

Awarded for distinguished service of a high order.

### Padma Shri

Awarded for distinguished service in various fields.

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## Fields Covered Under Padma Awards

Recipients may come from:

* Literature
* Education
* Science
* Engineering
* Medicine
* Social Work
* Public Affairs
* Sports
* Arts
* Civil Services

These awards celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to society.

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# Gallantry Awards

Gallantry Awards recognize bravery, courage, and sacrifice.

President Droupadi Murmu presents these honours to members of the Armed Forces and civilians who display exceptional courage.

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## Param Vir Chakra

### Highest Military Decoration

The Param Vir Chakra is India’s highest wartime military decoration.

### Awarded For

* Extraordinary bravery
* Self-sacrifice
* Exceptional courage during war

### Importance

It represents the highest level of military heroism.

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## Ashoka Chakra

### Highest Peacetime Gallantry Award

The Ashoka Chakra is awarded for:

* Exceptional courage
* Self-sacrifice
* Bravery away from the battlefield

Both civilians and military personnel may receive this honour.

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## Mahavir Chakra

The Mahavir Chakra is India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award.

It recognizes exceptional bravery in combat operations.

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## Kirti Chakra

The Kirti Chakra is awarded for bravery during peacetime situations.

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## Vir Chakra

The Vir Chakra recognizes acts of courage and gallantry during military operations.

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# National Film Awards

The National Film Awards recognize excellence in Indian cinema.

President Droupadi Murmu presents these awards to filmmakers, actors, directors, and technicians.

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## Categories

### Best Feature Film

Recognizes outstanding cinematic achievement.

### Best Actor

Awarded for exceptional acting performance.

### Best Actress

Recognizes excellence in acting by female performers.

### Best Director

Honours outstanding direction in filmmaking.

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## Importance

National Film Awards promote:

* Indian cinema
* Cultural diversity
* Creative excellence
* Artistic innovation

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# National Sports Awards

Sports awards recognize athletes and coaches who bring glory to the nation.

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## Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

### Highest Sporting Honour

This is India’s highest sporting award.

### Awarded For

* Outstanding sporting performance
* International achievements

### Importance

Recognizes elite athletes representing India globally.

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## Arjuna Award

Presented for consistent excellence in sports.

### Eligibility

Athletes demonstrating:

* Exceptional performance
* Discipline
* Sportsmanship

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## Dronacharya Award

Presented to coaches who produce outstanding athletes.

### Significance

Recognizes excellence in sports coaching and training.

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# National Teachers Awards

Teachers play a critical role in nation-building.

The National Teachers Awards recognize educators who make exceptional contributions to education.

### Areas Considered

* Innovative teaching methods
* Student development
* Educational leadership
* Community engagement

These awards encourage excellence in education.

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# Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration

Although linked to government administration, these awards are formally presented during national recognition ceremonies.

### Purpose

Recognize outstanding public service and governance.

### Benefits

* Encourages innovation
* Improves public administration
* Promotes citizen-centric governance

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# National Child Awards

Children who demonstrate extraordinary talent and achievements receive national recognition.

### Fields

* Innovation
* Sports
* Arts
* Academics
* Social Service

These awards encourage young achievers to pursue excellence.

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# Awards for Science and Innovation

India recognizes scientists, researchers, and innovators who contribute to national development.

### Areas

* Space Research
* Technology
* Medicine
* Engineering
* Agriculture
* Environmental Science

Scientific awards encourage innovation and research excellence.

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# Women’s Achievement Awards

Women who contribute significantly to society are honoured through various national awards.

### Contributions Recognized

* Social Work
* Education
* Healthcare
* Entrepreneurship
* Public Service

These recognitions support women empowerment and leadership.

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# Awards for Social Service

Many individuals dedicate their lives to improving society.

National honours recognize contributions in:

* Rural Development
* Child Welfare
* Environmental Protection
* Healthcare
* Education
* Community Service

These awards encourage social responsibility and public welfare.

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# Significance of National Awards

National honours serve several important purposes.

### Recognition of Excellence

They acknowledge exceptional contributions across sectors.

### Inspiration for Youth

Award winners inspire future generations.

### National Pride

The awards celebrate India’s achievements and values.

### Encouragement of Service

Recognition motivates citizens to contribute positively to society.

### Promotion of Innovation

Awards encourage creativity, research, and leadership.

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# President Droupadi Murmu’s Contribution to Award Ceremonies

President Droupadi Murmu has emphasized:

* Inclusivity
* Social development
* Grassroots achievements
* Women’s empowerment
* National service

Her participation in award ceremonies highlights the importance of recognizing individuals from all regions and backgrounds.

The recognition of unsung heroes and community leaders has received particular attention during her tenure.

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# Importance for Competitive Exams

Questions related to national awards frequently appear in:

* UPSC Civil Services Examination
* SSC CGL
* SSC CHSL
* Banking Exams
* Railway Recruitment Exams
* State PSC Exams
* Defence Exams
* CUET

Students should focus on:

* Award names
* Categories
* Eligibility
* Highest honours
* Recent recipients
* Historical significance

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# Quick Revision

### Highest Civilian Award

Bharat Ratna

### Highest Wartime Gallantry Award

Param Vir Chakra

### Highest Peacetime Gallantry Award

Ashoka Chakra

### Highest Sports Award

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

### Major Civilian Awards

* Bharat Ratna
* Padma Vibhushan
* Padma Bhushan
* Padma Shri

### Military Awards

* Param Vir Chakra
* Mahavir Chakra
* Vir Chakra
* Ashoka Chakra
* Kirti Chakra

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# Conclusion

National awards and honours represent the highest recognition of excellence, service, courage, innovation, and dedication. Through the conferment of prestigious awards such as the Bharat Ratna, Padma Awards, Gallantry Awards, National Film Awards, and Sports Awards, President Droupadi Murmu continues the tradition of celebrating individuals who contribute significantly to India’s growth and development.

These awards not only honour outstanding achievements but also inspire millions of citizens to strive for excellence and serve the nation. Understanding these honours is essential for students, professionals, and competitive exam aspirants seeking to stay informed about India’s most prestigious recognitions and the remarkable individuals who receive them.