The 2025 Padma Awards yet again revealed an imbalance in national recognition. Of the 139 awards conferred, 51 went to arts and 30 to literature and education. In contrast, only 27 were awarded across science, engineering, medicine, and trade and industry. Does it highlight a failure to recognise the role of science, trade, and innovation in national development, or does it signal a deeper issue – the lack of enough professionals in these fields who meet the Padma criteria? Either scenario is concerning.
While arts and literature are integral to India, achieving Mission 2047 and transitioning into a developed nation requires a greater emphasis on sectors that drive economic growth, innovation, and technological progress. National awards are more than just symbols of excellence; they shape aspirations and set core priorities. Hence, when fields critical to India’s advancement receive minimal recognition, it sends the wrong message to the citizens.
India’s political discourse has increasingly framed wealth creation in adversarial terms, attempting to foment class divides rather than celebrating economic success stories. It has also moved towards cash distribution to win votes, thereby promoting a freebie culture that is detrimental to the nation. Recognising entrepreneurs and industrialists through national awards would validate their contributions and counteract this negative narrative and trend by encouraging a broader shift towards economic and industrial progress, inspiring more Indians to engage in wealth generation. Similarly, honouring scientists, doctors, and innovators would motivate the youth to pursue the Indian dream – to ‘make in India’ and ‘build India’ – rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
A recalibration of Padma awards to better reflect contributions in science, technology, industry, and medicine could have a multiplier effect – steering the national narrative towards innovation, economic growth, and progress. For India to achieve its development goals, its highest civilian honours must recognise and reinforce the sectors that will shape its future.
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