Bharat Ratna Award 2024 Winners List
The Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, was conferred upon five distinguished individuals in 2024, marking the highest number of recipients in a single year. The Government of India recognized their immense contributions in politics, agriculture, and social reforms.
The Bharat Ratna remains a testament to the nation’s gratitude towards individuals who have made unparalleled contributions to its growth and development. Here is the detailed list of the 2024 Bharat Ratna awardees:
Bharat Ratna Awardees of 2024
- Karpoori Thakur (Posthumous)
A revered socialist leader and former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur was known for his unwavering commitment to social justice and the upliftment of marginalized communities. His tenure was marked by significant educational reforms and policies aimed at affirmative action, earning him the title “Jan Nayak” (People’s Leader). - Lal Krishna Advani
Co-founder of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a pivotal figure in Indian politics, L.K. Advani served as the 7th Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004. His political journey, including initiatives like the Ram Rath Yatra, played a significant role in shaping contemporary Indian politics. At 96, he is the sole living recipient among the 2024 awardees. - P.V. Narasimha Rao (Posthumous)
As the 9th Prime Minister of India (1991-1996), P.V. Narasimha Rao is often hailed as the “Father of Indian Economic Reforms.” His tenure marked a transformative period in India’s economic history, transitioning the nation towards liberalization, privatization, and globalization. - Chaudhary Charan Singh (Posthumous)
The 5th Prime Minister of India, Chaudhary Charan Singh was a staunch advocate for farmers’ rights and agrarian reforms. His policies focused on improving the livelihood of the rural populace, earning him the title “Champion of India’s peasants.” - M.S. Swaminathan
Renowned as the “Father of the Green Revolution in India,” M.S. Swaminathan’s pioneering work in agriculture led to increased food production and self-sufficiency, transforming India into a food-surplus nation.
Significance of the 2024 Bharat Ratna Awards
The 2024 Bharat Ratna awards were notable not only for the distinguished individuals honored but also for the unprecedented number of recipients. Traditionally, the award is conferred upon a maximum of three individuals annually. However, in 2024, five luminaries were recognized, underscoring their monumental contributions to India’s socio-economic and political fabric.
Overview of the Bharat Ratna Award
- Establishment: 1954
- Criteria: Exceptional service in any field of human endeavor
- Design: A peepal leaf-shaped medallion with the Sun emblem and the words “Bharat Ratna” inscribed in Devanagari script
- Privileges: While the award does not carry monetary benefits, recipients are accorded several honors, including state guest status and placement in the order of precedence.