Republic Day 2026: Padma Shri Awards Shine Light on India's Unsung Heroes
In a heartwarming celebration of dedication and service, the Republic Day 2026 Padma Shri awards have honored 45 individuals from across India in the 'Unsung Heroes' category. These remarkable people, often working quietly behind the scenes, have been recognized for their extraordinary contributions to society, ranging from healthcare and education to cultural preservation and social welfare.
Inspiring Stories of Service and Innovation
The list of awardees includes a diverse group of creators and builders who have overcome personal challenges to make a significant impact. Among them is Dr Armida Fernandez, an 88-year-old neonatologist from Mumbai, who is being awarded the Padma Shri for her pioneering work in maternal and child health. She established Asia's first human milk bank, a groundbreaking initiative that has saved countless infant lives, especially in impoverished urban areas. Additionally, Dr Fernandez has trained over 2,000 nurses and doctors, leaving a lasting legacy in the medical field.
Another notable honoree is Inderjit Singh Sidhu, a retired IPS officer from Chandigarh, who has been conducting cleanliness drives by picking up garbage from the streets using his cycle cart. His efforts highlight the power of individual action in promoting environmental sustainability and community hygiene.
Education and Literacy Champions
The awards also celebrate individuals dedicated to education and literacy. Anke Gowda from Karnataka, a former bus conductor, founded Pustakamane, now one of India's largest free-access libraries with over 20 lakh books in more than 20 languages. This library houses rare manuscripts, magazines, and dictionaries, making knowledge accessible to all.
Similarly, Budri Thati, affectionately known as Badi Didi, has transformed lives in Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh by setting up schools despite facing threats and a lack of basic infrastructure like roads and electricity. Her work has empowered women and children through education.
Medical and Cultural Contributions
In the medical realm, Dr Shyam Sundar of Uttar Pradesh is recognized for his groundbreaking work in combating Kala Azar (Black Fever). He developed the affordable K39 rapid test for faster diagnosis and pioneered the oral use of miltefosine, significantly aiding India's fight against this deadly disease.
Other awardees include Dr Punniamurthy Natesan of Tamil Nadu for his work in ethno-veterinary medicine, Dr Padma Gurmet of Ladakh for contributions to Sowa-Rigpa (an ancient Himalayan medical system), and Brij Lal Bhat of Jammu and Kashmir for extensive social service. Cultural preservation is highlighted through Bhiklya Ladakya Dhinda of Maharashtra, who preserves the rare tarpa musical tradition, and Bhagwandas Raikwar of Madhya Pradesh, dedicated to safeguarding Bundelkhand's legendary Bundeli war art.
A Tribute to Resilience and Service
An official remarked, "Each of these awardees is an inspirational story of rising from very modest beginnings and through tremendous personal tragedies and hardships, to not just excel in their chosen mediums, but go further to serve society at large." This sentiment underscores the essence of the Padma Shri awards, which aim to bring these unsung heroes into the limelight, celebrating their selfless efforts and inspiring future generations.
The Republic Day 2026 celebrations thus not only mark India's constitutional pride but also honor the everyday heroes who build the nation through their unwavering commitment and innovative spirit.
