The Padma Awards, among India's highest civilian honours, are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. These awards include Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service, Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a higher order, and Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. A key requirement is that recipients' achievements must include an element of public service. On the same day, 982 personnel from Police, Fire, Home Guard and Civil Defence (HG&CD), and Correctional Services received gallantry and service medals. These awards celebrate those who serve India with dedication and excellence.