Padma Awards: Shifting Emphasis to Meritocracy and Uncelebrated Contributors

 The Modi government has redefined the significance of Padma awards, transforming them into a platform that recognizes individuals setting groundbreaking examples for social change. The recently announced list of Padma awards underscores the government's commitment to honoring talent, meritocracy, hard work, diversity, perseverance, social work, unique skills, and the achievements of ordinary men and women, moving beyond the realm of celebrities. While celebrating celebrities is not discouraged, the Padma awards now symbolize something deeper than mere glamour and razzmatazz.

 

Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, the awards have taken on a new meaning, symbolizing the acknowledgment of unsung heroes who toil day and night, profoundly influencing their communities but often going unnoticed. In contrast to the previous Congress regime, where many awardees were pliable figures willing to praise the ruling dispensation, the Modi government has shifted the focus to those who truly deserve recognition.

 

In a noteworthy acknowledgment of exceptional contributions to the technology industry, Young Liu, the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Foxconn, the Taiwanese multinational electronics contract manufacturer, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award this year. With a career spanning over four decades, Liu, a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator, founded Young Micro Systems in 1988 before leading Foxconn to become the world's largest contract manufacturer, responsible for assembling a significant portion of iPhones.

 

Foxconn's strategic diversification away from China in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions has been marked by significant investments in India over the past year under the Modi government. This aligns with the broader strategy to reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing.

 

Padma awards, instituted in 1954, are announced annually on Republic Day, except for brief interruptions in 1978-1979 and 1993-1997. These awards recognize individuals without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex for their distinguished and exceptional achievements or service in various fields. The awards, categorized as Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, aim to acknowledge outstanding achievements across diverse fields that involve an element of public service.

 

The awards are granted based on recommendations from the Padma Awards Committee, formed annually by the prime minister himself. The committee, led by the Cabinet Secretary and including key officials and distinguished individuals, evaluates nominations, even allowing self-nomination. Final approvals come from the Prime Minister and the President of India. In the previous year, 106 Padma awards were announced, and this year's tally stands at 132.

 

Padma Shri continues the tradition of the Narendra Modi government in celebrating unsung heroes from remote parts of the country. From tribal reformers and environmentalists to women breaking the glass ceiling and medical practitioners overcoming personal tragedies, this year's Padma Shri honors ordinary individuals whose impactful work speaks louder than their humble voices.