What is the name of India's highest civilian award given to a civilian for exceptional service in any field of human endeavour?

Introduction / Context:
India has multiple award systems recognising contributions in different domains such as military valour, cinema, literature and overall service to the nation. Among these, one stands as the highest civilian award for exceptional service in any field of human endeavour. Knowing its name is a staple part of Indian general knowledge.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question is about the highest civilian award of India.
• The award is given to civilians for exceptional service in any field.
• Options include Bharat Ratna, Param Vir Chakra, National Film Award and Jnanpith Award.

Concept / Approach:
Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian award. It is conferred in recognition of exceptional service or performance of the highest order in any field of human activity. Other options represent specialised awards: Param Vir Chakra is a wartime military gallantry honour, National Film Awards relate to cinema and Jnanpith Award is for literature. Therefore, Bharat Ratna fits the description in the question exactly.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the phrase highest civilian award for exceptional service in any field. Step 2: Recall that Bharat Ratna is widely described with similar wording in textbooks and news articles. Step 3: Identify that other options are specific to one domain, not to all fields. Step 4: Choose Bharat Ratna as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can cross check by remembering notable recipients of Bharat Ratna, such as eminent leaders, scientists, musicians and social reformers, who come from various fields. This multi domain nature of the award matches the phrase any field of human endeavour in the question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Param Vir Chakra: Highest wartime gallantry award, but not a civilian award for general service.
• National Film Award: Top recognition in Indian cinema, but limited to film and not the highest civilian honour overall.
• Jnanpith Award: Prestigious for literature, but domain specific.

Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates confuse highest civilian award with most famous specialised awards in fields like literature or cinema. Always remember that Bharat Ratna covers any field and is formally designated as the highest civilian honour of the Republic of India.

Final Answer:
India's highest civilian award given to a civilian for exceptional service in any field is the Bharat Ratna.