The correct answer is: A) Karnataka Ratna.
Karnataka Ratna is the highest civilian award bestowed by the Karnataka state government. It is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the state in any field, such as art, literature, science, education, social service, or public life.
The award was instituted in 1964, and the first recipient was Dr. M. Visvesvaraya, a renowned engineer and statesman. Some of the other notable recipients of the award include Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, P.V. Narasimha Rao, and H.D. Deve Gowda.
The award consists of a gold medal, a shawl, and a citation. It is presented by the Governor of Karnataka at a public function held on Karnataka Rajyotsava Day, which is celebrated on November 1.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award in India, awarded by the Government of India.
- Rajyotsava Award is a state award given by the Government of Karnataka to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the state in any field.
- Kempegowda Award is a state award given by the Government of Karnataka to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the state.