Shivani Jaiswal, New Delhi-
President Droupadi Murmu on Monday conferred the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awards on 66 distinguished personalities during the first Civil Investiture Ceremony for 2026 held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The ceremony recognised individuals for their exceptional contributions in diverse fields including public affairs, arts, literature, education, medicine, social work, business, science and engineering, sports, and preservation of traditional and grassroots cultural heritage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, several Union Ministers, senior government officials and distinguished guests were present during the grand ceremony at the Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The Padma Awards, among the country’s highest civilian honours, are presented annually to recognise outstanding service and achievements across various disciplines. The awardees included renowned artists, scholars, social reformers, medical experts, entrepreneurs and grassroots workers who have made significant contributions to society and the nation.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu praised the recipients for their dedication, innovation and commitment towards nation-building. She said the achievements of the awardees continue to inspire millions across the country and reflect the spirit of excellence and service.
The Civil Investiture Ceremony highlighted India’s rich diversity of talent and celebrated individuals whose work has left a lasting impact on society and national development.
Amit Shah said students and the nation are more important than any post, calling Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation a step taken in the interest of students.
Pralhad Joshi took charge of the Education Minister saying his first priority is to understand the departments functioning.
Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda said the party will demand accountability from the BJP government in Parliament over paper leaks and seek reforms to protect students.
The student led CJP called off its nationwide agitation calling the Education Ministers resignation a victory for democracy.
Pralhad Joshi has been given additional charge of the Union Education Ministry following Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation amid the exam paper leak controversy.
Pralhad Joshi takes charge as Education Minister after Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and leaders across the country paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the 1999 Kargil War.
India honours its Kargil heroes at the 1999 wars lessons on vigilance and intelligence remain relevant today.
The Centre has proposed tougher anti-cheating laws, increasing jail terms and fines to crack down on paper leaks and organised exam fraud.
After Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, the CJP said it will decide its next demands based on the government’s response, signalling the protests are not over.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned after weeks of student protests over alleged exam paper leaks, marking a major political development.
The Centre and CJP held a two hour meeting.
The Centre sought time till Saturday to respond the CJP demand for Dharmendra Pradhan resignation.
The Congress and the CJP intensified protests over the NEET paper leak as the Centre prepared for crucial talks with students leaders in Delhi.
Opposition protests over the paper leak row disrupted Parliament for the fifth straight day.
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