The Government is to confer Bharat Ratna to Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Late Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. The announcement of the country's highest civilian award was made in a press communique issued by the Rashtrapati Bhawan today.The announcement to confer the award on Mr.Vajpayee, has been made on the eve of his 90th birthday which will be celebrated as Good Governance Day .

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed delight at the Bharat Ratna being conferred on Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. In a series of tweets, Mr Modi said, country's highest honour to these illustrious stalwarts is a fitting recognition of their service to the Nation. Mr Modi said, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya is remembered as a phenomenal scholar and freedom fighter who lit the spark of national consciousness among people. The Prime Minister said, Mr Vajpayee is a guide, inspiration and giant among giants and his contribution to India is invaluable.