(a) the objectives behind the institution of Padma awards in the country;
(b) whether there is any guideline for receiving applications for Padma award for scrutinising
and selection of the applications received;
(c) if so, the details in this regard;
(d) whether the scope of the Padma awards is proposed to be extended; and
(e) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)
(a): The Government of India has instituted Padma Awards to honour individual acts of merit and /
or achievements in various fields of activities which could act as a powerful incentive for greater
efforts by the person and would also serve as an example for others to follow.
(b): Yes, Madam.
(c): In terms of extant procedure/guidelines regulating Padma Awards, nominations for the awards
are open to all. Besides inviting nominations from institutional sources like State Governments/UT
Administrations, Central Ministries/departments, Institutes of Excellence and Bharat Ratna and Padma
Vibhushan awardees, a large number of recommendations are also received from various other sources like
Governors, Chief Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, Private institutions/bodies and
individuals etc. All nominations/recommendations received in the Ministry are placed before the Padma
Awards Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary for its consideration. The Padma Awards Committee
scrutinizes all nominations and submits its recommendations to the Home Minister, Prime Minister and
the President for approval.
(d) to (e): No Madam, Padma Awards are given for exceptional and / or distinguished service in any
field, hence extension of the scope of the awards does not arise.