Uttarakhand News, Padma Bhushan 2026, Bhagat Singh Koshyari: Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister and former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari will be honoured with the Padma Bhushan award. The prestigious civilian honour will be presented during a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on May 25. President Droupadi Murmu will confer the award upon him along with other distinguished personalities.
Journey from teacher to senior political leader
Bhagat Singh Koshyari is widely known as Bhagata Da in Uttarakhand. Over the years, he has built an identity as an educationist, social worker, journalist and a leader associated with nationalist ideology. He has often been recognised for his simple lifestyle, discipline and dedication towards public service.
Born on June 17 1942 in Palanadhura village of Bageshwar district, Koshyari started his career in the field of education. Later, he became actively involved in social work and nation building activities. He also contributed to the establishment of Saraswati Shishu Mandir and Vivekanand Inter College in Pithoragarh.
Active role during Emergency and Uttarakhand movement
During the Emergency period, Bhagat Singh Koshyari was jailed under the MISA Act, reflecting his active political and social involvement. He later played an important role in the Uttarakhand movement and the process of state formation.
After the formation of Uttarakhand, he became part of the interim cabinet and also served as Chief Minister of the state for a brief period. Apart from this, he worked as Leader of Opposition in the Assembly and also represented Uttarakhand in both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.
In 2019, he was appointed as the Governor of Maharashtra and was later given additional charge of Goa as well.
The Padma Bhushan honour is being seen as a major recognition of Bhagat Singh Koshyari long public and political journey and his contribution towards society and public life.
