Explanation –

Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct. The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honours of India. They are announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. These Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions which are held at Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March / April every year. The awards come under the aegis of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The award acknowledges achievements in all fields of activities or discipline where element of public service is involved. Padma Vibhushan is highest in the hierarchy of Padma Awards followed by Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these Awards. All nominations received for the Padma Awards are placed before the Padma Awards Committee constituted by the Prime Minister every year. The Padma Awards Committee is headed by the Cabinet Secretary and includes the Home Secretary, the Secretary to the President, and four to six eminent persons as members. The recommendations of the committee are submitted to the Prime Minister and the President of India for approval.

Statement 4 is incorrect. All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these awards. However, government servants including those working with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), except doctors and scientists, are not eligible for these Awards.

Source: Forum IAS