BHARAT
RATNA – AWARDS 
News:
Late Karpoori Thakur to
be bestowed Bharat Ratna
What's
in the news?
●      
In a politically significant move, the
government announced the highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, for socialist
icon and former Chief Minister of Bihar, late Karpoori Thakur. 
●      
He
will be the 49th recipient and 15th to be accorded posthumously.
Jan
Nayak Karpoori Thakur - the Bharat Ratna Awardee:
●      
Shri Karpoori Thakur was born in 1924 in
one of the most backward sections of society - the Nai Samaj. 
Political
Side:
●      
He was a remarkable leader whose political
journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to the marginalised sections of
society.
●      
He served as the Chief Minister of Bihar and was a key figure in the struggle against
social discrimination and inequality.
Social
Actions:
●      
Karpoori Thakur's commitment to
affirmative action gave representation and opportunities to the poor,
oppressed, exploited and deprived sections of the country.
●      
Karpoori Thakur's policies and reforms
were pioneering in bringing about significant changes in the lives of many,
especially in the fields of education, employment and farmer welfare.
Significance:
●      
By honouring Shri Thakur with Bharat
Ratna, the government recognizes his role as a symbol of democracy and social
justice.
●      
The government also acknowledges his deep
impact as a motivating figure for the marginalised sections of society.
Go
back to basics:
Bharat
Ratna:
●      
Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the country. 
●      
It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the
highest order in any field of human endeavour. 
●      
It is treated to a different footing from
the Padma Award. 
Recommendations:
●      
The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are
made by the Prime Minister to the
President of India. 
Restrictions:
●      
The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is
restricted to a maximum of three in a
particular year.