The Padma Awards have never been free from controversy. There is no doubt that this year too the awards will have its share of naysayers. In fact, the only thing that some critics have complained about is the large number of foreigners being awarded this year. From Japan, Russia and the US, 16 foreigners have been awarded with 10 from ASEAN countries. For instance, the late Russian diplomat Alexander Kadakin was an known Indophile, instrumental in boosting India-Russian relations throughout his life.

Source: dna March 20, 2018 02:26 UTC