Nominations Open for Padma Awards 2026: Recognizing Exceptional Contributions

New Delhi- Nominations for the prestigious Padma Awards 2026 have officially begun, with the process opening on March 15 and continuing until July 31, 2025. The awards — Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri — are among India’s highest civilian honors, celebrating distinguished service across various fields.

The nominations will be accepted exclusively through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at awards.gov.in. Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards recognize exceptional achievements in disciplines such as Art, Literature, Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade, and Industry.

In line with the government’s vision of transforming the awards into the “People’s Padma,” citizens are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals, including those from marginalized communities, women, and differently-abled persons. Notably, government servants, except doctors and scientists, are ineligible for these awards.

Nominations require detailed submissions, including an 800-word citation highlighting the nominee’s contributions. Further information is available on the Ministry of Home Affairs website and the Padma Awards Portal.

The winners will be announced on Republic Day 2026.