First list of Padma awardees announced; Padma Shri for 31 people including Velu Aasaan and Batool Begam

NEW DELHI: The first phase of the Padma Awards list has been announced in connection with Republic Day. The list features 31 recipients. Notable awardees include Tamil Nadu's Parai artist Velu Aasaan, para-athlete Harvinder Singh, Kuwait-based yoga instructor Shaikha A.J. Al-Sabah, folk singer Batool Begam, freedom fighter Libia Lobo Sardesai, and gynaecologist Dr Neeraj Bhatia. All have been honoured with the Padma Shri for their exceptional contributions in their respective fields.

The President's Gallantry Medals have also been announced. Two Malayalees from the Indian Air Force have been honoured with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal. Air Marshal B. Manikandan, Chief of the Southern Air Command, and Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, will receive the prestigious medal. Air Marshal B. Manikandan hails from Kottayam.