Scholars, teachers, rescuers, health and production workers among state award recipients on occasion of Republic Day

A total of 661 personalities from different walks of life were conferred the Tamil Nadu state awards on the occasion of the Republic Day.

Governor R.N. Ravi presented the awards at a function held at the Raj Bhavan.

The state awards were given to scholars, teachers, farmers, social workers, differently-abled persons, police personnel, rescuers, health, and production workers.

The awards were presented in four categories:

1. Kalaimamani (Artiste)
2. Arignar Anna Award
3. Dr. Ambedkar Award
4. Avvaiyar Award

The Kalaimamani award is given to eminent artistes in the field of music, dance, drama, literature, and fine arts.

The Arignar Anna Award is given to individuals for their outstanding contributions to social service.

The Dr. Ambedkar Award is given to individuals for their outstanding contributions to the upliftment of the downtrodden and marginalized sections of society.

The Avvaiyar Award is given to women for their outstanding contributions in various fields.

The awardees included:

• Dr. S. Ramakrishnan, a renowned astrophysicist, was conferred the Kalaimamani award.
• Ms. P.T. Usha, a former track and field athlete, was conferred the Arignar Anna Award.
• Mr. V. Baskaran, a social activist, was conferred the Dr. Ambedkar Award.
• Ms. Sudha Raghunathan, a Carnatic vocalist, was conferred the Avvaiyar Award.

The Governor congratulated the awardees for their outstanding contributions to Tamil Nadu and wished them continued success in their respective fields.