Business Leaders Recognized 2026: The Central Government has announced the prestigious Padma Awards on the eve of Republic Day 2026. This year, a total of 131 personalities will be given this civil honor for their extraordinary contribution. This is a proud moment for the business world as the names of many prominent industrialists are included in this list. Through these awards, the government has appreciated the contribution of business leaders to the development of India.

Respect to banking and industry

Banking sector veteran Uday Kotak’s name figures prominently in this year’s list of Padma Bhushan honours. Kotak has been selected for his long experience in the financial sector and the important role it plays in the country’s economy. Along with him, other famous personalities of art, literature and politics have also been awarded this high civilian honour.

Pride of Defense and Manufacturing Sector

The government has announced the prestigious Padma Shri award to Solar Industries India Chairman Satyanarayan Nuwal. Nuval has received this distinction for strongly promoting indigenous ammunition manufacturing in the defense sector. This honor clearly underlines the sustained contribution of entrepreneurs in strengthening the vision of a self-reliant India.

Dalit Entrepreneurship and Social Service

Famous Dalit entrepreneur Ashok Khade has been honored with Padma Shri for making his unique mark in the corporate world. Along with him, textile businessman Nilesh Mandlewala was also selected for his contribution in the field of social service and business. Mandlewala launched ‘Donate Life’ Through the organization he has left a distinct and very important mark in social work.

‘Pressure Cooker King’ posthumous honor to

It has been decided to posthumously honor TT Jagannathan, head of the famous TTK Group, with the Padma Shri award. Jagannathan is known as the ‘Pressure Cooker King’ Which completely changed the market of kitchen appliances. Under his leadership, TTK Group had established a new and very strong identity in the Indian manufacturing and industry sector.

Overall details and scope of awards

A total of 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards have been announced on the occasion of Republic Day. These include great experts from various fields like business, industry, arts, literature, sports, science and medicine. Every year, the government awards these highest civilian honors to precious diamonds who have done excellent work for the society.

Impact of these awards on the business world

The award of Padma Award to people associated with the business world recognizes the role of the private sector in the economic progress of the country. Names like Satyanarayan Nuwal and Uday Kotak will become a source of inspiration for the youth who want to start new startups. This step of the government will prove to boost the morale of Indian industrialists and give them recognition at the global level.