What is Bharat Ratna?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The Bharat Ratna is awarded by the President of India.
- 2.
The award is presented in the form of a certificate (Sanad) signed by the President and a medallion.
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Recipients of the Bharat Ratna receive no monetary grant.
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Bharat Ratna recipients are placed seventh in the Indian order of precedence.
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The award can be conferred posthumously.
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While there is no formal nomination process, recommendations are made by the Prime Minister to the President.
- 7.
The number of awards given in a year is restricted to a maximum of three.
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Foreign nationals can also be awarded the Bharat Ratna. Mother Teresa, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, and Nelson Mandela are examples.
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The award can be revoked, although this has never happened.
- 10.
The criteria for awarding the Bharat Ratna have been broadened over time to include any field of human endeavour.
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The award is considered the highest recognition for exceptional contributions to the nation.
- 12.
The recommendations for the award are treated with utmost confidentiality.
Visual Insights
Bharat Ratna: Key Aspects
Understanding the Bharat Ratna award and its significance.
Bharat Ratna
- ●Eligibility & Criteria
- ●Awarding Process
- ●Significance
- ●Recent Developments
Recent Developments
5 developmentsIn 2019, Pranab Mukherjee, Bhupen Hazarika (posthumously), and Nanaji Deshmukh (posthumously) were awarded the Bharat Ratna.
There are often public debates about who should be awarded the Bharat Ratna.
The government periodically reviews the criteria and guidelines for the award.
Demands are often made to award the Bharat Ratna to various historical figures.
The selection process remains confidential to maintain the integrity of the award.
This Concept in News
2 topicsPM Museum to Display Replicas of Morarji Desai's Awards
12 Feb 2026This news about the PM Museum displaying replicas of Morarji Desai's Bharat Ratna directly highlights the symbolic value and historical importance of the award. It demonstrates how the Bharat Ratna serves as a marker of exceptional national service, even decades after it was conferred. The news applies the concept of the Bharat Ratna in a practical context, showcasing how it is remembered and celebrated in national institutions. It reveals the enduring legacy of the award and its power to inspire future generations. The implications of this news are that the Bharat Ratna continues to be a relevant and respected symbol of Indian achievement. Understanding the concept of the Bharat Ratna is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides context for why Desai's award is being displayed and why it is considered a significant part of his legacy. Without understanding the Bharat Ratna, the news would simply be about displaying an old award, rather than recognizing a symbol of national excellence.
PM Museum to Display Replicas of Morarji Desai's Awards
12 Feb 2024This news about Morarji Desai's Bharat Ratna replica being displayed highlights the enduring legacy and symbolic value of the award. (1) It underscores the Bharat Ratna's role in preserving the memory of individuals who have made exceptional contributions. (2) The display serves as a tangible representation of the honor bestowed upon Desai, allowing the public to connect with his achievements. (3) The news reveals the ongoing efforts to commemorate and celebrate the recipients of the Bharat Ratna, ensuring their contributions are not forgotten. (4) This event reinforces the importance of the Bharat Ratna as a symbol of national pride and recognition. (5) Understanding the concept of Bharat Ratna is crucial for appreciating the significance of this news, as it provides context for the honor being bestowed upon Morarji Desai and the purpose of displaying his award.
Frequently Asked Questions
61. What is the Bharat Ratna, and what type of achievements does it recognize?
The Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian award. It recognizes exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor. This includes fields like arts, literature, science, and public service.
Exam Tip
Remember that the Bharat Ratna is not limited to specific fields; it encompasses 'any field of human endeavor'.
2. How is the Bharat Ratna awarded, and who decides the recipients?
The Bharat Ratna is conferred by the President of India. The Prime Minister makes recommendations to the President regarding who should receive the award. There are no formal written recommendations required.
Exam Tip
Note the roles of the President and Prime Minister in the Bharat Ratna award process.
3. What are the key provisions related to the Bharat Ratna, such as the number of awards given annually and eligibility?
Key provisions of the Bharat Ratna include: * It is India's highest civilian award, recognizing exceptional service. * It is awarded by the President of India based on recommendations from the Prime Minister. * The award is not limited to Indian citizens; it can be awarded to foreign nationals. * A maximum of three awards can be given in a single year. * The recipients receive a Sanad (certificate) and a medallion.
- •It is India's highest civilian award, recognizing exceptional service.
- •It is awarded by the President of India based on recommendations from the Prime Minister.
- •The award is not limited to Indian citizens; it can be awarded to foreign nationals.
- •A maximum of three awards can be given in a single year.
- •The recipients receive a Sanad (certificate) and a medallion.
Exam Tip
Remember the maximum number of Bharat Ratna awards that can be given in a year (three).
4. How has the Bharat Ratna evolved since its inception in 1954?
The Bharat Ratna was established on January 2, 1954. Initially, it was limited to achievements in arts, literature, science, and public service. In December 1954, the criteria were expanded to include 'any field of human endeavor'.
Exam Tip
Note the initial fields for which the Bharat Ratna was awarded and the subsequent expansion of criteria.
5. What is the legal framework governing the Bharat Ratna?
There is no specific Act or Constitutional Article governing the Bharat Ratna. It is governed by conventions and notifications issued by the President of India.
Exam Tip
Remember that the Bharat Ratna is not governed by a specific Act or Constitutional Article.
6. What are some of the debates and discussions surrounding the Bharat Ratna?
There are often public debates and discussions regarding the selection criteria and deserving candidates. The government periodically reviews the guidelines and procedures for the award.
Exam Tip
Be aware of the ongoing discussions regarding the selection process and criteria for the Bharat Ratna.