Padma Awards Nominations Open 2026

Summary of the Padma Awards-2026 Nominations

The Government of India has officially opened the nominations for the Padma Awards-2026 starting from 15th March 2025, until the deadline set for 31st July 2025. The Padma Awards, which include Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, rank among the highest civilian honors bestowed in India and are traditionally announced on Republic Day every year. The awards are aimed at acknowledging individuals who have made exceptional contributions across various fields.

Key Points:

• Nominations Timeline:

  • Start Date: 15th March 2025
  • End Date: 31st July 2025

• Application Process:

  • Nominations and recommendations must be submitted online via the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in).

• Categories of Awards:

  • Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri recognize excellence in diverse fields including:
    • Art
    • Literature and Education
    • Sports
    • Medicine
    • Social Work
    • Science and Engineering
    • Public Affairs
    • Civil Service
    • Trade and Industry

• Eligibility Criteria:

  • Open to all individuals regardless of race, occupation, position, or gender.
  • Excludes government servants, including those in Public Sector Undertakings, barring doctors and scientists.

• Government Initiative:

  • The initiative aims to make Padma Awards more inclusive and representative of society, termed as “People’s Padma.”
  • Encourages nominations from all citizens, focusing on the identification of talent among women, SCs, STs, the disabled community, and those engaged in selfless community service.

• Submission Requirements:

  • Nominations must include a detailed citation not exceeding 800 words, showcasing the nominee's distinguished and exceptional achievements or services within their specific field.

• Resources for Information:

  • Detailed guidelines and forms can be found on the Ministry of Home Affairs website (https://mha.gov.in) and the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in).
  • Relevant statutes and rules regarding the awards are available at the designated link on the Padma Awards website.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the contributions of exceptional individuals in society, thus fostering a culture of appreciation for extraordinary service and achievement in various domains.

In conclusion, the Padma Awards serve as a platform to showcase the rich tapestry of talent and dedication present across the nation, encouraging widespread participation from all sections of society.