The Padma Vibhushan is the second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India. Instituted on 2 January 1954, the award is given for the "exceptional and distinguished service", without distinction of race, occupation, position, or sex. The criteria includes the "service in any field including service rendered by Government servants" but excluding those working with the Public sector undertakings with the exception of doctors and scientists. , the award has been bestowed on 294 individuals, including 6 posthumous and 19 non-citizen recipients.