Explanations:India has a system of civilian awards that recognize outstanding contributions in various fields. The highest civilian award in India is the Bharat Ratan, which translates to "Jewel of India." This award is given to individuals who have made exceptional and outstanding contributions to the nation in any field of human endeavor. It is a rare and prestigious honor, and only a few individuals have been awarded this distinction since its inception in 1954.
Jayaprakash Narayan, often referred to as JP, was a significant political and social reformer in India. He played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement and later became a prominent figure in the Indian political landscape. His contributions to social service and his efforts to promote democracy and good governance were widely recognized. In recognition of his immense contributions, Jayaprakash Narayan was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratan in 1999.
The Bharat Ratan is awarded by the President of India on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. It is a rare honor, and the number of recipients is limited. The award consists of a lapel badge and a certificate. The badge is a replica of the diamond-shaped Bharat Ratna medal, which is made of gold and features the Ashoka Chakra in the center.
Other civilian awards in India include the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, which are lower in rank than the Bharat Ratan. The Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award, followed by the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Shri. These awards are given for distinguished service of a high order in any field, including the arts, education, industry, and social service.
Understanding the hierarchy and significance of these awards is important for students preparing for competitive exams, as questions related to Indian honors and awards are frequently asked in exams such as the UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, and CLAT. It is essential to know the highest civilian award and its recipients to answer such questions accurately.