CNBC TV18
By Priyanka Deshpande
Published Feb 9, 2024
Instituted in 1954, Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award. It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor.
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Nominated by the Prime Minister to the President, the winners receive a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion.
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Shaped like a peepal leaf, the Bharat Ratna medallion is 3.1mm thick, 4.7cm wide and approximately 5.8cm long. Take a look at the recipients of the award in 2024.
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Karpoori Thakur (1924-1988)
Socialist icon and former chief minister of Bihar, Thakur was popularly known as Jan Nayak for his pro-poor approach.
Image: Narendra Modi/X
Lal Krishna Advani
Served as Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004, Advani deeply influenced the politics of his time and, along with Atal Bihari Vajpayee, built the BJP into a national political force.
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PV Narasimha Rao (1921-2004)
Served as Prime Minister of India from 1991 to 1996, Narasimha Rao was known for playing a key role in India’s economic liberalisation.
Image: Narendra Modi/X
Chaudhary Charan Singh (1902-1987)
Served as Prime Minister of India from 1991 to 1996, Narasimha Rao was known for playing a key role in India’s economic liberalisation.
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Dr Ms Swaminathan (1925-2023)
Known for his pivotal contribution to India’s Green Revolution, Swaminathan’s initiatives introduced Mexican semi-dwarf wheat to India, promoting modern farming practices.
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