Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award in India, recognizing exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field. Here are some key details about Bharat Ratna:
- Establishment: The Bharat Ratna was instituted in 1954, initially as a recognition of outstanding achievements in the fields of art, literature, science, and public services. The award was later expanded to include any field of human endeavor.
- Criteria: The Bharat Ratna is awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the advancement of art, literature, science, public service, or any other field of human endeavor. The contributions should be of the highest order and should have a lasting impact on the nation.
- Selection Process: The award is granted by the President of India on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister constitutes a committee to review nominations and make recommendations for the award. The final decision rests with the President.
- Number of Awardees: Initially, the Bharat Ratna was limited to a maximum of three recipients in a year. However, in December 2011, the eligibility criteria were changed, and the number of annual awards was revised to a maximum of three without any specific quota.
- Privileges: Recipients of the Bharat Ratna are given a certificate of honor, a medallion, and a cash prize. They are also entitled to a lifelong monthly pension and are provided with a 'Bharat Ratna' emblem to be worn on special occasions.
- Notable Recipients: Several eminent personalities from various fields have been honored with the Bharat Ratna. Some notable recipients include Jawaharlal Nehru, Mother Teresa, Indira Gandhi, APJ Abdul Kalam, Sachin Tendulkar, Lata Mangeshkar, Pandit Ravi Shankar, Bhimsen Joshi, and CNR Rao, among others.
It's important to note that the Bharat Ratna is a highly prestigious and exclusive award, and the selection process and criteria are subject to the discretion of the government of India. The award is a symbol of the nation's recognition and appreciation for exceptional contributions to the betterment of society and the country as a whole.