The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the Republic of India. Instituted on 2 January 1954, the award is conferred in recognition of "exceptional service/performance of the highest order", without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex. This article discusses Bharat Ratna in detail, which will be helpful for UPSC IAS Exam aspirants for their preparation.

Bharat Ratna

Bharat Ratna

• The Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian honour, established in 1954.
• It is given in honour of remarkable service in any sphere of human endeavour, regardless of race, career, status, or sex.
• On the Prime Minister's suggestion to the President of India, a maximum of three Bharat Ratna awards can be presented each year.
• The recipient of the award receives a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President as well as a medallion. The prize does not come with a monetary grant.
• The awardees are not allowed to use Bharat Ratna as a prefix or suffix to their names, as stated in Article 18(1) of the Indian Constitution.
• There is no formal requirement that the Bharat Ratna be granted solely to Indian nationals.
  • This prestigious prize was given to a naturalized Indian citizen, Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu, popularly known as Mother Teresa (1980), as well as non-Indians, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (1987) and Nelson Mandela (1990).

Bharat Ratna - Specifications

• The initial award was a circular gold medal with a sun on the obverse side (35 mm in diameter).
• Above the flower, a wreath was engraved "Bharat Ratna" in Devanagari script.
• The National Emblem of India, fashioned of platinum, with the National Motto, 'Satyameva Jayate,' written in Devanagari script on the other side.
• The Alipore Mint in Kolkata produces the Bharat Ratna medals, as well as other renowned prizes such as the Padma Vibushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and Param Veer Chakra.

List of Recipients of Bharat Ratna (1954-2019)

Conclusion

The Bharat Ratna is awarded "in appreciation of outstanding service/performance of the highest level," regardless of race, occupation, status, or sex. According to the 1954 rules, the prize was limited to the arts, literature, science, and public service. The regulations were revised in December 2011 to encompass "any sphere of human endeavour." Posthumous honours were not permitted under the 1954 legislation, but this was changed in the January 1955 act, and Lal Bahadur Shastri became the first winner to be honoured posthumously in 1966.

FAQs

MCQs

1. When was the Bharat Ratna first established?

A) 1950
B) 1952
C) 1954
D) 1956

2. Who can recommend a candidate for the Bharat Ratna?

A) Any citizen
B) The Prime Minister of India
C) State Governors
D) The Chief Justice of India

3. Which of the following fields is NOT a category for the Bharat Ratna?

A) Literature
B) Science
C) Sports
D) Public service

4. Which notable leader was among the first recipients of the Bharat Ratna?

A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Mahatma Gandhi
C) C. Rajagopalachari
D) B.R. Ambedkar

5. Can the Bharat Ratna be awarded to non-Indians?

A) Yes
B) No
C) Only to foreigners who contributed to India
D) Only to those of Indian origin

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Analyze the significance of the Bharat Ratna in contemporary Indian society.

Answer: The Bharat Ratna holds immense significance in contemporary Indian society as it serves not only as the highest civilian award but also as a symbol of national pride and recognition of exemplary contributions to the nation. It inspires individuals across various fields to strive for excellence and serve society. The award highlights the achievements of individuals who have made a positive impact, thereby encouraging a culture of social responsibility and activism. Furthermore, it reinforces the values enshrined in the Constitution, promoting unity in diversity and fostering a sense of belonging among citizens. As recipients often become role models, their recognition through the Bharat Ratna can lead to increased awareness and involvement in social, cultural, and political issues, ultimately contributing to national progress.

Q2: Discuss the criteria and selection process for the Bharat Ratna.

Answer: The Bharat Ratna does not have formal criteria explicitly outlined, but it is typically awarded based on exceptional service or performance in fields such as arts, literature, science, and public service. The selection process involves recommendations made by the Prime Minister to the President of India. This process ensures that the recipients are individuals of significant merit whose contributions have profoundly influenced the nation. The decision-making is often informed by public sentiment and the prevailing socio-political context, reflecting the award's status as a national honor.

Q3: Evaluate the impact of the Bharat Ratna on the fields of art and literature in India.

Answer: The Bharat Ratna has had a profound impact on the fields of art and literature in India by recognizing and honoring outstanding contributions that enrich the cultural landscape of the nation. By awarding individuals such as Rabindranath Tagore, S. Radhakrishnan, and M. S. Subbulakshmi, the Bharat Ratna not only celebrates their achievements but also elevates the importance of artistic expression and literary excellence. This recognition encourages new generations of artists and writers to pursue their passions and reinforces the value of cultural heritage in the collective consciousness of society. The award acts as a catalyst for promoting the arts and literature, fostering appreciation and support for creative endeavors across the country.

Previous Year Questions on Bharat Ratna

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2021:

Question: Who among the following was the first recipient of the Bharat Ratna?

A) Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
B) C. Rajagopalachari
C) C.V. Raman
D) Jawaharlal Nehru

Answer: (B)

Explanation: C. Rajagopalachari was the first recipient of the Bharat Ratna, awarded in 1954.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2020 (GS Paper 1):

Question: "Discuss the role of the Bharat Ratna in promoting national unity and cultural integrity."

Answer: The Bharat Ratna plays a pivotal role in promoting national unity and cultural integrity by honoring individuals whose contributions transcend regional and communal divides. The award recognizes achievements in diverse fields, reflecting the pluralistic nature of Indian society. By celebrating the achievements of individuals from various backgrounds, the Bharat Ratna fosters a sense of shared identity and pride among citizens. It encourages recognition of the rich cultural heritage of India, promoting harmony and mutual respect, which are essential for the country's unity.