The Indian honours system is the system of awards given to individuals for a variety of services to the Republic of India. The categories of awards are as follows: Civilian awards Bharat Ratna The Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of India, was instituted in the year 1954. Any person without distinction of race, occupation, position, gender or religion is eligible for this award. It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavor. On conferment of the award, the recipient receives a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion. Padma awards Padma Awards were instituted in the year 1954. Except for brief interruptions during the years 1978 to 1979 and 1993 to 1997, these awards have been announced every year on Republic Day. The award is given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, in decreasing order of precedence. Padma Vibhushan is awarded for "exceptional and distinguished service". Padma Vibhushan is the second (2nd)- highest civilian award in India. Padma Bhushan is awarded for "distinguished service of a high order". Padma Bhushan is the third (3rd)- highest civilian award in India. Padma Shri is awarded for "distinguished service". Padma Shri is the fourth (4th)- highest civilian award in India. Unlike national honours, the Padma awards do not include cash allowances, benefits, or special concessions in rail/air travel. Per a December 1995 judgment of the Supreme Court of India, no titles or honorifics are associated with the Bharat Ratna or any of the Padma awards; honourees cannot use them or their initials as suffixes, prefixes or pre- and post-nominals attached to the awardee's name. This includes any such use on letterheads, invitation cards, posters, books etc. In the case of any misuse, the awardee will forfeit the award, and he or she is cautioned against any such misuse upon receiving the honour. The decoration comprises a sanad (Certificate) issued under the hand and seal of the President and a medal. The recipients are also given a replica of the medal, which they can wear during any ceremonial/State functions etc., if they desire. A commemorative brochure giving out brief details in respect of each award winner is also released on the day of the investiture ceremony. Selection process These awards seek to recognize work of any distinction, and is given for distinguished and exceptional achievements/service in