Bharat Ratna

Bharat Ratna (Hindi: भारत रत्न, meaning Jewel of India,^[1] or Gem of India)^[2] is the highest civilian award in India. They are given to people who have given the highest level of service in artistic, literary or scientific achievements.^[3] As of 2011, it can also be given to sportspeople.^[4]

References

1. Mahajan, Vidya Dhar (1971). The Constitution of India. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Eastern Book Company. p. 169.
2. Hoiberg, Dale; Indu Ramchandani (2000). Students' Britannica India. New Delhi: Encyclopædia Britannica (India). Vol. 3, p.198. ISBN 978-0-85229-760-5.
3. Pylee, Moolamattom Varkey (1971). The Constitution of India. New Delhi: S. Chand & Company Ltd. p. 114. ISBN 978-81-219-2203-6.
4. "Govt changes criteria for Bharat Ratna; now open for all". The Hindu. Press Trust of India. 16 December 2011. Retrieved 16 December 2011.