Padma Awards — Set 2
Awards & Honors · पद्म पुरस्कार · Questions 11–20 of 70
Which field of activity is NOT covered under the eligibility for Padma Awards?
Correct Answer: A. Government Service including PSUs
Government servants, including those working with PSUs, are generally not eligible for Padma Awards, except for doctors and scientists. This exclusion maintains the distinction between professional duty and extraordinary service. Private citizens and retired officials are the primary recipients.
Which of these symbols is present on the front of the Padma Shri medallion?
Correct Answer: D. Lotus
The word 'Padma' means lotus in Sanskrit, which is the central symbol of the award. The medallion features a lotus flower embossed in the center. This symbolizes purity and national identity in Indian culture.
The total number of Padma awards to be given in a year (excluding posthumous and foreigners) should not exceed?
Correct Answer: A. 120
The annual ceiling for the number of Padma awards is set at 120. Posthumous awards and those given to non-residents or foreigners are excluded from this count. This limit preserves the exclusivity and prestige of the honors.
Who was the first musician to be awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1975?
Correct Answer: D. M.S. Subbulakshmi
M.S. Subbulakshmi was a legendary Carnatic singer and a recipient of this high honor. She was also the first musician ever to be awarded the Bharat Ratna. Her contribution to Indian classical music is considered incomparable.
The Padma awards are presented by the President of India usually in which month?
Correct Answer: A. March or April
The presentation ceremony is typically held at Rashtrapati Bhavan during March or April. Although announced in January, the physical investiture happens later in the year. The ceremony is attended by the highest dignitaries of the state.
Are the Padma awards considered a title that can be used as a suffix or prefix to the name?
Correct Answer: D. No, it is not allowed
The correct answer is 'No, it is not allowed'. As per Article 18 of the Constitution, these awards are not titles and cannot be used with names. Recipients are discouraged from using the award on letterheads or visiting cards. The Supreme Court has upheld this restriction to maintain democratic equality.
Which category of Padma award is given for 'exceptional and distinguished service'?
Correct Answer: A. Padma Vibhushan
The Padma Vibhushan is specifically designated for service that is both exceptional and distinguished. It is the highest among the three Padma categories. Only the Bharat Ratna sits above it in the national hierarchy.
Who was the first sportsperson to receive the Padma Vibhushan?
Correct Answer: D. Viswanathan Anand
Viswanathan Anand was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2007 for his chess mastery. He was the first athlete in Indian history to reach this particular civilian rank. Sachin Tendulkar received his Padma Vibhushan later in 2008.
Which material is used for the metal part of the Padma Bhushan medallion?
Correct Answer: D. Bronze
The Padma Bhushan medallion is made of toned bronze. It features the words 'Padma' and 'Bhushan' embossed in gold. The design has remained consistent since its inception in the 1950s.
The Padma Shri award medallion is made of which primarily polished metal?
Correct Answer: D. Bronze
The Padma Shri is a bronze medallion with all embossing done in stainless steel. The combination of bronze and steel gives it a unique aesthetic look. It is the most widely distributed of the three Padma awards.