New Delhi/IBNS: Dilip Mahalanabis, who pioneered the use of ORS, will be awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award.

In a statement on the eve of the 74th Republic Day, the government said Mahalanabis' efforts led to the widespread use of oral rehydration system (ORS), which is "estimated to have saved over five crore lives globally."

Mahalanabis, 87, is a resident of West Bengal and is among 26 Padma award recipients whose names have been announced.

ORS is a simple, inexpensive yet effective ingenious solution which helps during diarrhoea, cholera and dehydration, especially in infants and children.

Thanks to the use of ORS, the world has seen a 93 per cent reduction in deaths due to these diseases.