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Nominations for Padma Awards 2026 open until July 31

The Indian diaspora across the world are also eligible for the civilian awards.

Padma Awards / X

The Government of India is inviting nominations for next year's Padma Awards, India’s highest civilian honors. The nominations will be accepted until July 31.

The Padma Awards — Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri —  are conferred annually on Republic Day (Jan 26) to individuals for distinguished and exceptional service in various fields, including art, literature, education, science and engineering, public affairs, medicine, social work, trade and industry, civil service, and sports.

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According to the official guidelines, all individuals are eligible for the awards regardless of race, gender, occupation, or nationality. This includes Indian citizens, foreign nationals, and members of the Indian diaspora. However, government servants — except doctors and scientists — including those employed in Public Sector Undertakings, are not eligible.

The Ministry of Home Affairs reiterated the government’s objective of transforming these awards into "People’s Padma" by recognizing grassroots contributors and unsung heroes from all walks of life. 

The government has urged citizens to identify and nominate individuals whose work is considered to be of high merit. Self-nominations are permitted. All nominations must be submitted exclusively through the online Rashtriya Puraskar Portal.

Particular emphasis has been placed on recommending individuals from Scheduled Castes and Tribes, women, persons with disabilities, and those engaged in grassroots and selfless work.

Nominations must be submitted in the prescribed format available on the awards portal. Each entry should include a citation in narrative form, not exceeding 800 words, detailing the nominee’s achievements.

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