India conferred Padma Vibhushan posthumously on Sir Edmund Hillary

India has conferred Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award, posthumously on Sir Edmund Hillary.The award was conferred upon the mountaineering legend late Sir Edmund Hillary was personally handed over to his wife by the commerce and trade minister Kamal Nath recently.

The posthumous award was given by Mr.Nath to Lady June Hillary on behalf of President Prathibha Patil at a ceremony hosted by Governor General Anand Satyanand in Auckland last week.The function organized by the Wellington-based Indian High Commission was attended by Susand Satyanand, Indian High Commissioner Kadakath Pathrose Ernest, second secretary Jagdish Bisgt and members of the Hillary family.

Late Sir Edmund Hillary was the 13 th foreigner of non-Indian origin to receive the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second Highest civilian award.

Mr.Kamal Nath paying high encomium on Hillary said that Sir Edmund Hillary inspired New Zealanders, Indians and people of the world with his selfless service.He was the most loved and respected New Zealander. He was an extraordinary human being who exemplified values throughout 88 years of life.