The Government of India honours its citizens for exceptional service in various fields. You must have heard the names of people who will be conferred with Padma awards, announced on Republic Day this year, which include the likes of superstar Rajinikanth and badminton player Saina Nehwal. We all know that these awards are meant to recognize their efforts and contribution towards the society, but do you know the hierarchy of these awards?

There are 4 major categories of Civilian awards, that were instituted way back in 1954. Here are these prestigious Civilian awards in the order of precedence.