The government has announced the names of 19 eminent citizens and two organisations for Ekushey Padak-2023 in recognition of their contributions to the respective fields.

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs made the announcement through a press release issued on Sunday.

Besides, three individuals will receive the Ekushey Padak for their contributions in the language movement, eight in art, and two in politics, while the rest have been nominated for Ekushey Padak in journalism, language and literature, education, research, social service and Liberation War respectively.

Two institutions – Bangladesh National Museum for education and Bidyanondo Foundation for social service – have been picked for the award.

As individuals, Khaleda Manzur-I-Khuda, freedom fighter AKM Shamsul Haque (posthumous), and Haji Md Mojibur Rahman were recognised for their role in the Language Movement.

Actors Masud Ali Khan and Shimul Yousuf will get the award for their achievements in acting.

Late lyricist Fazl-e-Khuda, Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra singer Manoranjan Ghoshal, and flute player Gazi Abdul Hakim were recognised for their contributions to music, while Jayanta Chattopadhyay will receive the award for his recitation.

Dr Md Abdul Mazid was recognised for his contribution to research while Prof Mazharul Islam for his role in education and Md Saidul Huq for his commendable social work. Late Manzurul Imam and late Akhtar Uddin Miah were honoured for their role in politics while Dr Moniruzzaman was awarded for his work in language and literature.

The Ekushey Padak has been presented every year since 1976 in recognition of the achievements and contributions of notable persons and organisations.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will present the awards to the recipients on February 20. Each of the winners will receive a 35-gram gold medal, a gift of Tk 400,000, and a certificate to mark the honour.