Pioneering Women: Padma Awards 2024 Celebrate 30 Trailblazers Reshaping History
In a historic announcement, the Indian government revealed the Padma Awards 2024 recipients, honoring 30 extraordinary women across three prestigious categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These accolades, India’s second-highest civilian honors, recognize outstanding contributions across diverse fields, inspiring generations with impactful stories in art, public affairs, social work, and agriculture.
Padma Vibhushan Trailblazers
Among the distinguished Padma Vibhushan winners are Vyjayantimala Bali and Padma Subrahmanyam, both luminaries in the field of art hailing from Tamil Nadu. Their exceptional contributions reflect the artistic richness of the region.
Padma Bhushan Icons
In the Padma Bhushan category, the late M Fathima Beevi, posthumously honored for her contributions to public affairs, joins Usha Uthup, an influential figure in the art world from West Bengal. These women have left an indelible mark on their respective domains.
Padma Shri Pioneers
The Padma Shri awardees comprise an inspiring group of women from diverse backgrounds. Rezwana Choudhury Bannya and Naseem Bano, distinguished artists from Bangladesh and Uttar Pradesh, respectively, showcase the international and national impact of their art.
Parbati Baruah’s recognition for social work in Assam and Smriti Rekha Chakma’s artistic prowess from Tripura highlight the diverse contributions from different regions.
Notably, K Chellammal, recognized for her achievements in agriculture from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, exemplifies the importance of women in shaping the agricultural landscape.
Sports enthusiasts find representation in Joshna Chinappa from Tamil Nadu and Purnima Mahato from Jharkhand, both Padma Shri awardees, demonstrating the prowess of women in the sports arena.
From international quarters, Charlotte Chopin, acknowledged for her contributions to yoga from France, adds a global dimension to the awardees.
Diverse Excellence Across Domains
The list further includes trailblazers like Kalpana Morparia in trade and industry from Maharashtra, and Aswathi Thirunal Gouri Lakshmi Bayi Thampuratty in literature and education from Kerala. This diverse array of awardees underscores the multifaceted influence women wield across various sectors.
In total, the government has recognized 132 individuals in 2024, with these 30 exceptional women contributing significantly to India’s cultural, social, and economic tapestry.
The Padma Awards ceremony, typically held in March or April, will see the President of India honoring these trailblazing women, symbolizing the empowerment and impact they have brought to society.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The shethepeople