Padma Awards 2026: Jammu & Kashmir’s Brij Lal Bhat Honoured for Social Service

Padma Shri for veteran social worker brings national recognition to grassroots service and community welfare in Kashmir


New Delhi, January 25: The Padma Awards 2026, among the highest civilian honours of the country, were announced on the occasion of Republic Day, bringing pride to Jammu and Kashmir with the conferment of the Padma Shri on Shri Brij Lal Bhat for his outstanding contribution in the field of social work.

Instituted to recognise exceptional service to the nation, the Padma Awards are conferred in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—across diverse fields including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, medicine, literature, education, sports, and civil services. While Padma Vibhushan honours exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan is awarded for distinguished service of a high order, and Padma Shri recognises distinguished service in any field.

For the year 2026, the President of India has approved the conferment of 131 Padma Awards, including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards. The list reflects inclusivity, featuring 19 women awardees, 16 posthumous honours, and 6 recipients from the Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI category.

Among the awardees, the recognition of Shri Brij Lal Bhat holds special significance for Kashmir. Known for his lifelong dedication to community welfare and social upliftment, Bhat has worked tirelessly at the grassroots level, addressing social challenges and contributing to the well-being of marginalized sections of society. His efforts have played a vital role in strengthening social harmony and promoting inclusive development in the region.

The Padma Shri awarded to Shri Brij Lal Bhat is being widely seen as a moment of pride for Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the impact of selfless service and commitment to society emerging from the region. It also serves as an inspiration for youth and social workers to engage in constructive nation-building activities.

The Padma Awards are formally conferred by the President of India during ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, usually in March or April each year. The honour bestowed upon Shri Brij Lal Bhat stands as a testament to Kashmir’s contribution to the social fabric of the nation.

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