GK: What Are The Benefits For Bharat Ratna Awardees? – News18

Last Updated:April 24, 2025, 17:00 IST

The Bharat Ratna was formally introduced on January 2, 1954, by President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, following a Cabinet proposal initiated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, honouring exceptional achievements in any field. The Bharat Ratna stands as the most prestigious civilian honour in India, bestowed in recognition of exceptional service or achievements of the highest calibre across any domain of human endeavour. This distinguished honour celebrates individuals whose remarkable contributions have brought pride and distinction to the nation.

The award was officially established on 2 January 1954 by the then President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, following a Cabinet resolution proposed by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Initially, the scope of the award was limited to the fields of art, literature, science, and public service. In 2011, the eligibility criteria were broadened to include “any field of human endeavour”, acknowledging excellence across a wider spectrum.

Celebrated artist Nandalal Bose, a Padma Vibhushan awardee, created the design of the medallion. The medal is shaped like a peepal leaf, cast in bronze, featuring the Sun and the inscription “Bharat Ratna” in Devanagari script on the front. The reverse side bears the State Emblem of India along with the national motto “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs). The medal is worn around the neck with a white ribbon.

The Bharat Ratna is awarded for extraordinary service or performance of the highest standard, without any bias based on race, occupation, position, or gender. It is open to all individuals—regardless of nationality—who have made significant contributions to the arts, literature, science, public service, or the promotion of peace and human welfare.

The award may also be conferred posthumously, provided the individual passed away within five years of their nomination. Candidates involved in moral misconduct are ineligible for the honour.

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Privileges And Benefits For Bharat Ratna Awardees

While the Bharat Ratna is primarily an honorary title, recipients are accorded several distinguished privileges in recognition of their immense contributions to the nation:

• Lifetime Tax Exemption
  Awardees are exempt from paying income tax for life, as a gesture of respect for their public service.

• Complimentary Air Travel
  They receive free first-class air travel on Air India for both official and personal travel within the country.

• Parliamentary Participation (Special Invitation)
  Though not members, awardees are sometimes invited to attend important sessions or special events in Parliament as guests of honour.

• Z-Category Security
  Recipients are often granted Z-level security—one of the highest levels of personal protection—ensuring their safety at all times.

• State Guest Status
  When travelling across states, awardees are treated as official state guests. This includes premium accommodation, transport, and hospitality at government expense.

• Access to International Diplomatic Facilities
  In select situations, Bharat Ratna recipients are extended certain diplomatic privileges while travelling abroad, reflecting their status as national ambassadors.

• Invitations to National Events
  They are regularly invited to attend high-profile national ceremonies and state functions, including Republic Day and Independence Day events.