The Ministry of Home Affairs has invited nominations for the Padma Awards 2026, with the submission window open until July 31, 2025. The awards will be announced on the occasion of Republic Day 2026.

According to the official notification, the nomination process began on March 15, 2025, and all recommendations must be submitted online via the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at https://awards.gov.in.

Instituted in 1954, the Padma Awards—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—are among India’s highest civilian honours. They recognize distinguished and exceptional service across diverse fields, including Art, Literature and Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science and Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade and Industry, and more.

Reaffirming its commitment to transforming the Padma Awards into the “People’s Padma”, the government is encouraging greater public participation in the nomination process. All citizens, regardless of race, occupation, position, or gender, are eligible. However, government servants, including employees of public sector undertakings, are not eligible—except for doctors and scientists.

The Ministry has urged the public to identify and nominate unsung heroes, especially individuals from weaker sections, women, SCs, STs, and divyang (differently-abled) persons who are making selfless contributions to society. Self-nominations are also encouraged.

Nominations must include all details as outlined in the format available on the portal, including a narrative citation (maximum 800 words) clearly highlighting the nominee’s achievements and impact.

For further information, individuals can visit the Ministry of Home Affairs website ((https://mha.gov.in) or the Padma Awards Portal ((https://padmaawards.gov.in) . Detailed statutes and rules regarding the awards can also be accessed directly at https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx.