The Bharat Ratna ('Jewel of India') is the country's highest civilian honour, instituted early in the republic's life. It is given for exceptional service in any field of human endeavour (originally only arts, literature, science and public service). The Prime Minister recommends names to the President. Winners get a leaf-shaped medallion and a certificate but no money, and rank seventh in the order of precedence.
Key facts
- Three people received it in its first year.
- Awards may be made posthumously, and many have been. (as of 23 Oct 2026)
- Two non-citizens have received it; Mother Teresa, who got it in 1980, was a naturalised Indian citizen.
- The youngest recipient was 40 when honoured; 2024 awardees were Karpoori Thakur, L. K. Advani, P. V. Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh and M. S. Swaminathan.
- The medallion is toned bronze with a sunburst and 'Bharat Ratna' in Devanagari on the front and the state emblem on the back.
Latest
53 recipients as of February 2026, 18 of them posthumous; posthumous awards began in 1966.
Why exams ask about it
The first recipients, non-citizen recipients, the youngest and the latest batch are asked every year.