The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced that nominations for the prestigious Padma Awards 2025 are now open. The awards, to be announced on Republic Day 2025, recognize exceptional achievements and distinguished service across various fields.

The nomination process, which began on May 1, 2024, will continue until September 15, 2024. For the first time, nominations will be accepted exclusively online through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in).

The Padma Awards, comprising Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are among India’s highest civilian honors. Established in 1954, these awards acknowledge outstanding contributions in diverse areas including art, literature, education, sports, medicine, social work, science, engineering, public affairs, civil service, trade, and industry.

In a move towards greater inclusivity, the government is encouraging nominations from all sections of society. A senior official said, “We are committed to transforming the Padma Awards into ‘People’s Padma’. We urge citizens to nominate deserving individuals, including self-nominations.”

The ministry emphasized the importance of recognizing talent from underrepresented groups, including women, weaker sections of society, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and persons with disabilities, especially those engaged in selfless service.

Nominations should include a detailed citation (maximum 800 words) highlighting the nominee’s exceptional achievements. While the awards are open to all citizens, government servants, except doctors and scientists, are not eligible.

Detailed guidelines and nomination forms are available on the Ministry of Home Affairs website (https://mha.gov.in) and the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in).