The Padma Awards 2026 honor distinguished contributors to agriculture and allied sectors, including leading scientists and farmers, for their transformative work in crop science, seed protection, animal husbandry and cooperative development.
The Central Government has announced the list of Padma Awards 2026, honoring 131 individuals for their exceptional service in various fields. The list includes five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards. The awardees include 19 women and 16 posthumous awardees.
Five senior scientists engaged in agricultural research and development have been selected for Padma Shri for their long-term contributions to crop improvement, biodiversity conservation, agricultural education and livestock development.
Agricultural scientists honored with Padmashree
Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh (Former Director, IARI, Pusa)
Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh is one of India’s leading agricultural scientists, known for his pioneering work on rice, especially Basmati varieties. Under his leadership at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), high-yielding, disease-resistant and better quality Basmati varieties were developed, strengthening India’s global reputation in basmati rice exports. His research significantly increased farmers’ income and expanded export potential.
Dr. PL Gautam (Former Chairman, NBA & PPVFRA)
Dr. PL Gautam played an important role in institutionalizing biodiversity conservation and plant diversity conservation in India. As Chairman of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) and the Plant Diversity and Farmers’ Rights Protection Authority (PPVFRA), he worked to protect farmers’ seed rights, promote registration of traditional varieties, and ensure sustainable use of biological resources. He Is credited with developing improved crop varieties including wheat and foxtail millet.
Dr. K. Ramaswami (Former Vice Chancellor, TNAU)
Dr. K. Ramaswamy made significant contributions in integrating agricultural education, research and extension services. During his tenure at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), major initiatives on climate-resilient farming, soil health management and modern agricultural technologies were launched. He also expanded farmer training programs and strengthened farmer-scientist interactions.
Dr. GL Trivedi (Former Vice Chancellor, RPCAU)
Dr. GL Trivedi contributed to strengthening agricultural research and higher education in Eastern India. As Vice-Chancellor of Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU), he promoted crop diversification, sustainable farming systems and greater participation of rural youth in agricultural education. His leadership emphasized research focused on regional agricultural challenges, directly benefiting local farmers.
Dr. N. Punniyamurthy (former dean, Tanvasu)
Dr. N. Punniyamurthy made notable contributions in the field of animal husbandry and veterinary education. As Dean at Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANVASU), he promoted animal health, dairy productivity and modern livestock management practices. His work provided the scientific basis for livestock-based livelihoods and improved productivity among pastoralists.
Farmers will get Padmashree award
Four farmers have been selected for Padmashree for their outstanding contribution to agriculture and animal husbandry.
Raghupat Singh (Uttar Pradesh, posthumously)
Raghupat Singh, a progressive farmer from Bilari in Moradabad district, preserved more than 55 rare and almost extinct vegetable varieties and developed about 100 new varieties. His work in seed conservation and innovation earned him several national awards during his lifetime.
Jogesh Deuri (Assam)
Jogesh Deuri has been honored for his efforts in the conservation and promotion of Muga silk, an integral part of Assam’s cultural identity and biodiversity. His initiative increased the income of thousands of rural families and helped Muga silk gain wide national and international recognition.
Shrirang Devaba Lad (Maharashtra)
Known for agricultural innovation, Shrirang Devaba Lad developed the “Dada Lad technique” for cotton cultivation, which increased cotton yields by nearly 300 percent. His method increased farmers’ income by more than 40 percent and thousands of farmers have adopted it.
Rama Reddy Mamidi (Telangana, posthumous)
Rama Reddy Mamidi strengthened the cooperative model in animal husbandry and dairy development. They trained farmers in livestock management, dairy practices and financial literacy, while promoting women-led cooperatives and self-reliant rural livelihoods.
Recognition for environmental protection
Environmental protection has also found a place in this year’s Padma list. Kolakkayil Devaki Amma from Kerala has been honored for creating a private forest spread over five acres behind her house, despite being physically disabled after a road accident. His initiative has become a living example of biodiversity conservation and environmental commitment.
The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honors and are awarded in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. The recognition of agricultural scientists, farmers and environmental champions in the 2026 list highlights the country’s growing emphasis on sustainable development, food security and grassroots innovation.
The awards will be formally presented by the President of India at a ceremony to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this year.
