Veteran Politicians Dr Murli Manohar Joshi, Sharad Pawar and renowned Space Scientist Prof Udipi Ramachandra Rao were given Padma Vibhusan. Former Lok Sabha Speaker P A Sangma was given the second highest civilian honour posthumously.
Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and renowned Gastro-Enterologist Tehemton Erach Udwadia received the Padma Bhushan.
Vice President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker and Home Minister were present on the occasion along with other dignitaries.