Mumbai: Protocol minister Jaykumar Rawal on Tuesday stated that individuals who shun publicity and work consistently and dedicatedly for comprehensive social welfare in various fields will become an inspiration for society and will be recommended for the Padma awards.
Committee Meeting and Members
Rawal heads the ministerial committee formed to recommend names for the Padma awards. The committee convened on Tuesday. Members include school education minister Dadaji Bhuse, industries and Marathi language minister Uday Samant, environment and climate change minister Pankaja Munde, women and child development minister Aditi Tatkare, public works minister Shivendrasinh Bhosale, and secretary of the protocol department Rajesh Gawande.
Criteria for Recommendations
Rawal emphasized that the government aims to honor meritorious individuals who have worked selflessly in various fields of Maharashtra at the national level through the Padma awards. “While recommending, priority should be given to actual contribution made to society, consistency in work, and inspiring personality rather than just fame. Also, to maintain the status and prestige of the Padma awards, it is necessary to select only those who have done truly remarkable work,” Rawal said.
He added that a comprehensive scrutiny will be conducted, and final recommendations will be sent to the Centre. This will ensure that individuals who have made notable contributions in fields such as art, literature, education, social work, science, agriculture, industry, environment, and public service in the state can be honored at the national level.
Exclusion of Culture Minister
Last month, in a move that surprised many in political circles, culture minister Ashish Shelar was kept out of the committee formed to recommend names for the Padma Awards 2027. In recent years, the culture minister has either headed the panel or has always been a part of it.
