25 January 2025, New Delhi: The Government of India distributed India's four highest civilian awards at Rastrpati Bhawan New Delhi. Prashanth Prakash, the founding partner of Accel India, has been honored with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, in the Trade and Industry category. This recognition highlights his significant contributions to India's entrepreneurial landscape and his impactful philanthropic endeavors. 

Since the inception of Accel India in 2008, Prakash has played a pivotal role in fostering several of the nation's most renowned businesses, including as Flipkart, Swiggy, BookMyShow, Infra.Market, Bluestone, Freshworks, Zetwerk, and Urban Company. His investments have been instrumental in establishing India as a global center for innovation and entrepreneurship. 

In addition to his contributions to the corporate sector, Prakash has spearheaded transformative projects in education, healthcare, agriculture, climate change, and urban infrastructure. His engagement with organizations like ACT Grants, Unboxing BLR Foundation, and Sikshana Foundation has cultivated scalable solutions to tackle India's urgent socioeconomic issues. 

Upon winning the Padma Shri, Prakash remarked, "This accolade acknowledges the pivotal contribution of startups and the technology sector to our nation's development." He graciously accepted the accolade on behalf of Accel India, his associates, colleagues, and all those who have diligently contributed to fortifying India's startup environment. 

The Padma Shri award recognizes Prakash's steadfast dedication to promoting innovation, advancing sustainability, and empowering communities throughout India. His endeavors have not only revolutionized the nation's startup ecosystem but have also substantially advanced its socio-economic development.

Full List of Padma Award Winners 2025