Every year on the eve of Republic Day, India announces the Padma Awards, one of the country’s highest civilian accolades. These honors recognize accomplishments that exemplify public service and national advancement and highlight outstanding contributions in various sectors. Three categories are used to award the honors:
- Padma Vibhushan (Exceptional and distinguished service)
- Padma Bhushan (Distinguished service of a high order)
- Padma Shri (Distinguished service)
The Prime Minister appoints the Padma Awards Committee, which chooses the winners each year after reviewing nominations. In Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President of India presents the final awards during a formal ceremony that usually takes place in March or April.
A Landmark Year for AI and Technology
The Padma Awards 2025 have made history by prominently recognizing leaders at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and deep technology. As AI spearheads the next industrial revolution, these honorees underscore India’s growing influence in global AI development, computing, and digital transformation.
While past recipients have been acknowledged for contributions to computing, machine learning, and semiconductor research, 2025 marks a notable shift—spotlighting multiple AI and tech visionaries in one year. This reflects India’s increasing commitment to AI-driven innovation and economic growth.
Notable AI and Technology-Focused Awardees
Padma Shri Recipients
Arundhati Bhattacharya: AI adoption leader in Indian business technology – Trade & Industry, India
Arundhati Bhattacharya has spearheaded the AI-driven digital transformation of Indian businesses in her role as Chairperson and CEO of Salesforce India. By incorporating AI-powered automation and digital banking services, she previously transformed the State Bank of India (SBI), affecting millions of people. Her Padma Shri acknowledges her contribution to the application of AI in India’s corporate technology and banking industries.
Prashant Prakash: The VC driving India’s AI startup Industry – Trade & Industry, India
Flipkart, Swiggy, and Freshworks are just a few of the largest tech businesses in India that Prashant Prakash has backed and coached in his role as Founding Partner of Accel India. He has played a significant role in promoting deep tech investments, sustainability, and AI adoption in India, assisting in the establishment of the nation as a global center for AI. His Padma Shri recognizes his efforts to shape entrepreneurship and his contributions to India’s startup environment.
Sethuraman Panchanathan: Advancing AI research and science policy in the US – Science & Engineering, USA
As Director of the US National Science Foundation (NSF), Sethuraman Panchanathan has shaped global AI research and policy. He oversees AI investments in fundamental research, workforce development, and next-gen computational science. His recognition underscores AI’s increasing role in international scientific collaboration and policymaking.
Padma Bhushan Recipient
Vinod Dham: Pentium Chip Father – Pioneering Semiconductors & AI Hardware – Science & Engineering, USA
A legendary semiconductor visionary, Vinod Dham played a key role in developing Intel’s Pentium processors, revolutionizing modern computing. His contributions have laid the groundwork for today’s AI-driven chips, powering cloud computing and edge devices. His Padma Bhushan honors his lasting impact on computing and semiconductor technology, which continues to advance AI innovation.
Padma Awards: AI and tech leaders are on the rise
It is not uncommon for the Padma Awards to recognize AI pioneers, such as:
- Raj Reddy (Padma Bhushan, 2001) -an early AI researcher who made significant contributions to robotics and speech recognition.
- Sankar Kumar Pal (Padma Shri, 2013) – a machine intelligence specialist who achieved notable advancements in fuzzy logic and pattern detection.
However, Padma Awards 2025 marks a paradigm shift, with multiple AI and semiconductor pioneers honored in a single year. This reflects India’s growing focus on AI as a transformative force in global technology and economic development.
India’s AI-Driven Future
By celebrating AI leaders at the Padma Awards 2025, India acknowledges the technology’s profound impact on industries, governance, and society. As AI continues to shape the global digital economy, these awardees exemplify the nation’s commitment to fostering cutting-edge innovation and leadership on the world stage.
In summary
The Padma Awards 2025 have set a new precedent by elevating AI pioneers and tech visionaries, reinforcing India’s position in the global AI landscape. As deep tech and AI-driven advancements gain momentum, such recognition will further inspire innovation and propel India toward becoming a digital powerhouse in the years ahead.
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