New Delhi: The government is set to announce the Padma awards today, ahead of Republic Day. On Saturday afternoon, it was announced that cricketer Yuvraj SIngh has been conferred with Padma Shri award. Reportedly, actor Kamal Haasan has been awarded Padma Vibhushan. Renowned scientist R A Mashelkar is reportedly among the 126 prominent personalities who will be conferred with Padma awards this year.

Mashelkar will get the highest Padma Vibhusan award for his contribution in shaping India’s science and technology policies. He was a member of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister and also of the Scientific Advisory Committee to the Cabinet set up by successive governments.

Other awardees include Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal and poet Ashok Chakradhar. Late Justice J S Verma, who headed the committee that recommended landmark changes to India’s anti-rape law following the Delhi bus gangrape and murder, is also being given the award posthumously along with rationalist and author Narendra Achyut Dabholkar, who was shot dead in Pune in August 2013.

Praveen Talha, former member UPSC is also among the famous personality who is being given the highest honour. According to sources,the women this year getting the award is highest and presently stands at 27 among the 126 awardees.

The names were shortlisted by a committee headed by the home secretary from recommendations sent by state governments and important personalities. The India’s highest civilian honours are given in three categories – Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri – and they are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year.