The prestigious Bharat Ratna 2024 award ceremony took place with grandeur, honoring eminent personalities who have left an indelible mark on India’s history. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the event and the distinguished awardees:
Droupadi Murmu Conferred Bharat Ratna: President Droupadi Murmu bestowed the Bharat Ratna upon five remarkable individuals at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Among them were two former Prime Ministers, Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao, alongside eminent agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, and former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur. Notably, all but one award were posthumously conferred.
Bharat Ratna Recipients:
- Karpoori Thakur (Posthumous): Recognized for his leadership as Bihar’s former chief minister and as a prominent socialist leader, Thakur was hailed as the ‘Jan Nayak’ (people’s leader) and received the 49th Bharat Ratna.
- Lal Krishna Advani: The veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Deputy Prime Minister was honored for his significant contributions to Indian politics and society.
- Pamulaparthi Venkata Narasimha Rao (Posthumous): Rao, India’s former Prime Minister, was lauded for his pivotal role in introducing economic reforms and strengthening India’s international relations.
- Chaudhary Charan Singh (Posthumous): A prominent Jat leader and former Prime Minister, Singh’s relentless efforts in championing the cause of farmers and anti-Congress politics were acknowledged.
- Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan (Posthumous): Fondly remembered as the ‘Father of Indian Agriculture,’ Swaminathan revolutionized Indian agriculture, ensuring food security and prosperity for the nation.
Highlights of the Ceremony:
- President Murmu personally visited the residence of Lal Krishna Advani to confer him with the prestigious award, considering his ailing health.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recommendations led to the selection of these distinguished personalities for the Bharat Ratna, marking a significant moment in India’s history.
- With these additions, the total number of Bharat Ratna recipients has now risen to 53, reflecting the rich tapestry of talent and dedication in the country.
Significance of Bharat Ratna:
- Established in 1954, the Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, bestowed upon individuals for their exceptional contributions across various fields.
- Recipients receive a certificate (Sanad) signed by the President and a medallion, symbolizing their extraordinary service to humanity.
- The Bharat Ratna stands as a testament to the nation’s gratitude towards those who have made remarkable strides in their respective domains, shaping the course of India’s progress.
The Bharat Ratna award ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of India’s rich heritage and the enduring legacy of those who have dedicated their lives to the nation’s advancement.
