It is the country's highest civil honour and is conferred upon "those who have rendered exceptionally outstanding and most distinguished service to the nation".

[1] The honour can only be held by five living Sri Lankans at any given time, and may also be conferred posthumously.

The insignia consists of a badge circular with blooming lotus in the centre and Sri Lankabhimanya written in Sinahala and Tamil around it.

The badge is suspended from the neck by a ribbon with a blue centre and two marron line between separated by yellow boarders.

A Sanasa (certificate) signed by the President of Sri Lanka is presented to the recipient.