<P> The Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the country, was instituted in the year 1954 . Any person without distinction of race, occupation, position, or gender is eligible for this award . It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service / performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour . On conferment of the award, the recipient receives a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion . It is not mandatory that this award should be given every year . </P> <P> Padma Awards were instituted in the year 1954 . Except for brief interruptions during the years 1977 to 1980 and 1993 to 1997, these awards have been announced every year on Republic Day . The award is given in three categories, viz . Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, in the decreasing order of importance . </P> <Ul> <Li> Padma Vibhushan for "exceptional and distinguished service". Padma Vibhushan is the second - highest civilian award in India . </Li> <Li> Padma Bhushan for "distinguished service of a high order". Padma Bhushan is the third - highest civilian award in India . </Li> <Li> Padma Shri is awarded for "distinguished service". Padma Shri is the fourth - highest civilian award in India . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Padma Vibhushan for "exceptional and distinguished service". Padma Vibhushan is the second - highest civilian award in India . </Li>

Which award is bigger padma shri and padma bhushan