Correct option is B
The correct answer is: (b) Only 1 and 3
Explanation:
· Statement 1 is correct: Padma Awards are conferred in three categories – Padma Vibhushan (2nd highest civilian award), Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
· Statement 2 is incorrect: Shinzo Abe was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, not Padma Bhushan.
· Statement 3 is correct: In 2021, the Padma Awards included:
· 7 Padma Vibhushan
· 10 Padma Bhushan
· 102 Padma Shri
Information Booster:
· Padma Awards are announced annually on the Republic Day (26th January).
· These awards recognize exceptional service in fields such as art, literature, education, sports, medicine, public affairs, etc.
· The awards are not posthumous by default, but can be given posthumously in exceptional cases.
· Padma Vibhushan is for "exceptional and distinguished service".
· Padma Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Additional Knowledge:
· Shinzo Abe, the former Prime Minister of Japan, was awarded the Padma Vibhushan (Public Affairs) for his role in strengthening India-Japan ties.
· Other prominent recipients in 2021:
· S P Balasubrahmanyam (Padma Vibhushan, posthumously – Art)
· Tarun Gogoi and Keshubhai Patel (Padma Bhushan, posthumously – Public Affairs)
· The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954.