The Padma Vibhushan was introduced by the Government of India in 1954, along with the Bharat Ratna. Initially, it had three classes, which were renamed in 1955 to:
Padma Shri (for “distinguished service”)
Padma Bhushan (for “distinguished service of a high order”)
Padma Vibhushan (for “exceptional and distinguished service”).
The Awards are given in various disciplines/ fields of activities, viz.- art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.
The Padma Awards are presented by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, usually around March/April each year.
For 2025, the President has approved 139 Padma Awards, which include:
