President Droupadi Murmu Confers Padma Vibhushan on Two Eminent Personalities
On June 23, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, on two distinguished individuals in separate ceremonies. The recipients were eminent Malayalam journalist P. Narayanan, recognized for his contributions to literature and education, and retired Supreme Court judge Justice (Retd.) K.T. Thomas, honored for his work in public affairs.
P. Narayanan: A Life Dedicated to Literature and Social Reform
P. Narayanan, a 90-year-old journalist from Kerala, received the Padma Vibhushan for his outstanding work in the fields of literature and education. According to a press release from the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Narayanan has been a dedicated advocate for social reform and national reconstruction throughout his career. He has authored and translated several books from various languages into Malayalam, enriching the literary landscape of the region. His contributions extend beyond journalism, as he has actively worked towards social change and national development.
Justice K.T. Thomas: A Pillar of Criminal Law and Police Reforms
Justice (Retd.) K.T. Thomas, a former judge of the Supreme Court of India, was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in the field of public affairs. The PIB noted his significant contributions to criminal law, police reforms, and the fight against corruption in private professional sectors. Known for his landmark judgments and legal expertise, Justice Thomas has been a key figure in shaping modern Indian jurisprudence, particularly in matters of criminal justice and accountability.
Padma Vibhushan: India's Second Highest Civilian Honor
The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service in any field, including art, literature, education, sports, medicine, social work, science, engineering, public affairs, civil service, trade, and industry. The awards are announced annually on Republic Day and conferred later in the year by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
