Respected Bundeli and Braj author from Chhatarpur - credited with several books and poetry collections

Distinguished Economist - renowned for institutionally building economic research and analysis capability in Bihar (Posthumous)

Nagpuri litterateur and educationist from Ranchi - worked towards the promotion of Nagpuri culture over 5 decades (Posthumous)

Tribal Social Worker from Tapi - leading SHGs in working across education, healthcare and sanitation

Karbi author and poet from Karbi Anglong - working towards the preservation and advancement of indigenous languages

Polish Sanskrit Scholar and Koodiyattam enthusiast - authored over 100 publications on ancient Indian Theatre

Eminent Thangka Painter from Sikkim - specialising in traditional Buddhist paintings on cotton and silk

Paralympic Gold Medallist - and World number 1 Para-Badminton Player

Punjabi Hindi Author and Academician - with over 30 books to his credit

Balti Poet and Author from Kargil - working for the preservation and promotion of Balti language and culture