NEW DELHI, Jan. 25 (Xinhua) -- Indian government on Friday announced to confer the country's highest civilian award 'Bharat Ratna' on former President Pranab Mukherjee, former parliamentarian and renowned social activist Chandikadas Amritrao Deshmukh also known as 'Nanaji Deshmukh', and Bhupen Hazarika, an eminent playback singer, lyricist, musician, singer, poet and film-maker from north-eastern state Assam.
Instituted in 1954, 'Bharat Ratna' is conferred on persons "in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order".
In his reaction to the announcement of the awards, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "Pranab Mukherjee is an outstanding statesman of our times. He has served the nation selflessly & tirelessly for decades, leaving a strong imprint on the nation's growth trajectory. His wisdom & intellect have few parallels. Delighted that he has been conferred the Bharat Ratna."
In another tweet, Modi said: "The songs and music of Bhupen Hazarika are admired by people across generations. From them radiates the message of justice, harmony and brotherhood. He popularised India's musical traditions globally. Happy that the Bharat Ratna has been conferred on Bhupen Hazarika."
"Nanaji Deshmukh's stellar contribution towards rural development showed the way for a new paradigm of empowering those living in our villages. He personifies humility, compassion and service to the downtrodden. He is a Bharat Ratna in the truest sense!," stated the Prime Minister.
