The process of submitting nominations and recommendations for the Padma Awards, which will be announced on Republic Day 2027 to honor individuals for exceptional achievements and service, commenced on Sunday.
The Padma Awards — Padma Vibhushan (awarded for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (awarded for distinguished service of a high order) and Padma Shri (awarded for distinguished service in any field) are among the country’s highest civilian honors. Instituted in 1954, these awards are announced every year on Republic Day to recognize “work of distinction” across various fields, a government statement said, according to PTI.
Where do you need to apply for nominations and recommendations for Padma Awards?
It also clarified that all nominations and recommendations will be accepted only through the online Rashtriya Puraskar Portal https://awards.gov.in.
What’s the last date for submitting Padma Award nominations?
According to a government statement, the deadline for submitting nominations has been set as July 31, 2026.
What did the government say?
The government said these awards are conferred in recognition of distinguished and exceptional achievements as well as service across a wide range of fields and disciplines, including art, literature and education, sports, medicine, social work, science and engineering, public affairs, civil service, and trade and industry, among others.
The statement also noted that the government remains “committed” to transforming the Padma Awards into “people’s Padma.”
“All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these awards. Government servants including those working with PSUs, except doctors and scientists, are not eligible for Padma Awards,” it mentioned.
The statement said that all citizens have been encouraged to submit nominations or recommendations, including self-nominations. It also urged people to make special efforts to identify deserving individuals, particularly women, members of weaker sections, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, divyang persons, and those engaged in selfless service to society, whose excellence and contributions merit recognition.
It further noted that nominations and recommendations must include all necessary details as per the prescribed format available on the portal, clearly highlighting the nominee’s distinguished achievements and exceptional service in their respective field or discipline.
“Details in this regard are also available under the heading ‘Awards and Medals’ on the website of the Ministry of Home Affairs ( and on the Padma Awards Portal ( it further stated.
The statement further added that the statutes and guidelines governing these awards can also be accessed on the official website.
For 2026, the President approved the conferment of 131 Padma Awards, which include two duo cases, counted as a single award in each instance. The honors comprised five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan and 113 Padma Shri awards.
(With inputs from agencies)
