President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Bharat Ratna upon five eminent personalities, including former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and P.V. Narasimha Rao, posthumously. The honor was also extended posthumously to agricultural scientist M.S. Swaminathan, former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, and former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani. The conferment ceremony, held at the presidential residence, was a momentous occasion.
Background of the Bharat Ratna
The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, established in 1954. It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor. Over the years, the award has been bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, science, arts, and literature.
President Droupadi Murmu’s Announcement
On March 30, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu announced the conferment of the Bharat Ratna upon the five distinguished individuals. The announcement was met with widespread acclaim and appreciation from across the country.
Recipients of the Bharat Ratna

- Chaudhary Charan Singh
- Chaudhary Charan Singh, a former Prime Minister of India, was a champion of farmers’ rights and welfare. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by his dedication to improving the lives of farmers and agricultural workers.
- P.V. Narasimha Rao
- P.V. Narasimha Rao, another former Prime Minister, is credited with ushering in economic reforms that transformed India’s economy. His leadership during a period of economic crisis was instrumental in steering the country towards economic growth and development.
- M.S. Swaminathan
- M.S. Swaminathan was a renowned agricultural scientist who played a key role in India’s Green Revolution. His research and advocacy for sustainable agriculture have had a lasting impact on the agricultural landscape of the country.
- Karpoori Thakur
- Karpoori Thakur, a former Chief Minister of Bihar, was a champion of social justice and equality. His efforts to uplift the marginalized sections of society have left a lasting legacy in Bihar and beyond.
- L.K. Advani
- L.K. Advani, a former Deputy Prime Minister of India, was a prominent political leader known for his contributions to the growth and development of the nation. His leadership and vision have inspired generations of Indians.
Acceptance of the Award
The conferment ceremony saw family members of the deceased recipients accepting the award on their behalf. Jayant Singh Chaudhary, the grandson of Chaudhary Charan Singh, accepted the award on behalf of his grandfather. Similarly, P.V. Prabhakar Rao received the honor on behalf of his father, P.V. Narasimha Rao. Nitya Rao, the daughter of M.S. Swaminathan, accepted the award on his behalf.
PM Modi’s Commendation
Prime Minister Modi commended the recipients for their exceptional contributions to the nation. He highlighted Chaudhary Charan Singh’s dedication to farmers’ welfare and M.S. Swaminathan’s role in revolutionizing Indian agriculture. The Prime Minister praised all the recipients for their remarkable achievements and contributions to various fields.
Conclusion
The conferment of the Bharat Ratna upon these distinguished individuals is a testament to their extraordinary contributions to the nation. It is a fitting tribute to their legacies and serves as a source of inspiration for future generations. The recognition not only honors their achievements but also serves as a moment of immense pride and honor for the entire nation.
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FAQs
- What is the Bharat Ratna award?
- The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, conferred in recognition of exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor.
- Who decides the recipients of the Bharat Ratna?
- The recipients of the Bharat Ratna are decided by the President of India, based on recommendations from the Prime Minister and other dignitaries.
- Who were the recipients of the Bharat Ratna in 2024?
- In 2024, the Bharat Ratna was conferred upon former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and P.V. Narasimha Rao, agricultural scientist M.S. Swaminathan, former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, and former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani.
- What is the significance of the Bharat Ratna award?
- The Bharat Ratna is a prestigious honor that recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation in various fields, including politics, science, arts, and literature.
- How many people have received the Bharat Ratna posthumously?
- Several individuals have been awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously, including the recipients in 2024, such as Chaudhary Charan Singh, P.V. Narasimha Rao, and M.S. Swaminathan.