The process for receiving nominations/recommendations for the prestigious Padma Awards–2026, to be announced on the occasion of Republic Day 2026, has commenced from 15th March, 2025. The last date for submission of nominations is 31st July, 2025. Nominations/recommendations will be accepted only through the online mode via the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at https://awards.gov.in.
The Padma Awards—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—are among the highest civilian honours of the Republic of India. Instituted in 1954, these awards are conferred annually on Republic Day to recognise “work of distinction” and honour exceptional and distinguished service across a wide range of fields and disciplines such as Art, Literature and Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science and Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Services, Trade and Industry, among others.
These honours are open to all individuals regardless of race, gender, occupation, or position. However, Government servants, including those employed in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), are not eligible, except in the case of Doctors and Scientists.
In line with the Government’s vision to transform the Padma Awards into “People’s Padma”, all citizens are encouraged to participate by submitting nominations or recommendations—including self-nominations. Emphasis is laid on identifying unsung heroes from across the nation, especially among women, members of the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), divyangjan (persons with disabilities), and individuals from underrepresented or weaker sections who have rendered selfless service to society.
Each nomination/recommendation must be accompanied by the complete details as prescribed in the online form available on the Portal, along with a narrative citation (not exceeding 800 words) that clearly outlines the nominee’s distinguished achievements and contributions in their respective field.
All are invited to take part in this national effort to honour excellence and service.
Details in this regard are also available under the heading ‘Awards and Medals’ on the website of Ministry of Home Affairs (https://mha.gov.in) and on the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in). The statutes and rules relating to these awards are available on the website with the link https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx