Former Union Minister _________ from Manipur was awarded Padma Shri in 2023 by the Union government for his contribution in public affairs in the last four decades.

The correct option is Thounaojam Chaoba.

Former Union Minister Thounaojam Chaoba Singh from Manipur was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri in 2023 by the Union Government for his significant contributions to public affairs over the last four decades.

Key Highlights:
1. Padma Shri Award (2023): Thounaojam Chaoba Singh received the Padma Shri in the field of Public Affairs.
2. Political Career: He served as a Union Minister of State for Cultural Affairs, Youth Affairs, and Sports in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government and has been a prominent political leader in Manipur.