On the eve of Republic Day, the Central Government on Sunday announced the Padma Awards for 2026, honouring individuals for their exceptional contributions across various fields.
This year’s list includes notable achievers from the Telugu states as well as several prominent national figures.
From the Telugu states, Dr. Kumarasamy Thangaraj, a senior scientist at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad, has been awarded the Padma Shri.
He was recognised for his pioneering research in human evolution and genetic disorders.
With over three decades of work in molecular genetics, Dr. Thangaraj has earned international acclaim for his scientific contributions.
Another Padma Shri awardee from Telangana is Rama Reddy Mamidi, who has been honoured for his significant role in improving animal husbandry practices and bringing positive change to the dairy sector through innovative methods.
Meanwhile, Bollywood veteran Dharmendra and former Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan have been conferred the Padma Vibhushan (posthumously), the country’s second-highest civilian award. The honour is given for “exceptional and distinguished service.”
The Padma Bhushan awards this year have gone to several well-known personalities, including actor Mammootty, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren (posthumously), advertising legend Piyush Pandey (posthumously), Uday Kotak, founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, singer Alka Yagnik, former tennis player Vijay Amritraj, and former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.
The Padma Awards continue to recognise excellence and lifelong service across science, arts, public service, sports and industry, celebrating contributions that have made a lasting impact on the nation.
