New Delhi [India], January 26 (NT): Late Air Force Commando Jyoti Prakash Nirala, who lost his battle of life in Bandipora encounter, was honored with Ashoka Chakra on the occasion of Republic Day.

President Ram Nath Kovind bestowed the award to Nirala's mother and wife.

The award was presented during the Republic Day function which organized at Rajpath in the national capital.

Meanwhile, Government on Thursday declared Padma awards for personalities who served the poor, set up free schools and popularised tribal arts globally.

Of these, three were Padma Vibhushan, nine Padma Bhushan, and 73 Padma Shri. Well-known classical singer Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan and ace music composer Ilaiyaraaja were selected for the country's second highest civilian award Padma Vibhushan.

Among the Indians, Padma Shri awardees include scientist toymaker Arvind Gupta, healer Lakshmikutty, Gond artist Bhajju Shyam, 99-year-old social worker Sudhanshu Biswas, and 'father of palliative care in India' MR Rajagopal.  Acclaimed Tamil folk art exponent, Vijayalakshmi N and Subhasini Mistry from West Bengal got Padma Shri. The list also includes activists Rani and Abhay Bang, social worker Lentina Ao Thakkar, wildlife conservationist Romulus Whitaker, Sampat Ramteke, Sanduk Ruit. Cricketer and former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni received the Padma Bhushan.