Shinzo Abe Among 2 Non-Indians Conferred With Padma Vibhushan This Year

The Union Home Ministry on the eve of 72nd Republic Day honoured two non-Indians – former Japan PM Shinzo Abe and India-based American physicist Narinder Singh Kapany - with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award for their exceptional and distinguished services. While Shinzo Abe was awarded for his efforts in the field of public affairs, Narinder Singh Kapany, widely known as 'father of fiber optics', was conferred posthumously with the country’s second highest civilian award. Started in 1954, the honor has been bestowed to only 21 non-citizens. In addition to this, from the Art field, Indian musician and playback singer SP Balasubramaniam was recognized posthumously. Odia sculptor Sudarshan Sahoo was also honored with Padma Vibhushan. Also, recognizing the meticulous efforts in spiritualism, archaeology and medicine the ministry conferred the award to Islamic scholar Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, BB Lal and cardiologist Dr. Belle Monappa Hedge respectively. Besides Padma Vibhushan, President Ram Nath Kovind conferred 10 Padma Bhushan, 102 Padma Shri awards.