The Bharat Ratna award was instituted in which of the following year?

1954

The correct answer is Option (3) - 1954

The Government of India instituted two civilian awards-Bharat Ratna & Padma Vibhushan in 1954. The latter had three classes namely Pahela Varg, Dusra Varg and Tisra Varg. These were subsequently renamed as Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri vide Presidential Notification issued on January 8, 1955. The Bharat Ratna the highest civilian award of India.
Padma Vibhushan is awarded for "exceptional and distinguished service". Padma Vibhushan is the second (2nd)- highest civilian award in India.
Padma Bhushan is awarded for "distinguished service of a high order". Padma Bhushan is the third (3rd)- highest civilian award in India.
Padma Shri is awarded for "distinguished service". Padma Shri is the fourth (4th)- highest civilian award in India.