The Government has decided to confer, the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award on eminent scientist Prof C.N.R.Rao and cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar.

Prof. C.N.R. Rao is an eminent scientist and a well recognized international authority on solid state and materials chemistry.  He has published over 1,400 research papers and 45 books.  Prof. Rao's contributions have been recognized by most major scientific academies around the world through conferment of memberships and fellowships.  He has been honoured with several national and international awards.

Shri Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly an outstanding cricketer - a living legend who has inspired millions across the globe.  During the last 24 years, since the young age of 16 years, Shri Tendulkar has played cricket across the world and won laurels for our country.  He has been a true ambassador of India in the world of sports.  His achievements in cricket are unparalleled, the records set by him unmatched, and the spirit of sportsmanship displayed by him exemplary.  That he has been honoured with several awards is testimony to his extraordinary brilliance as a sportsman.