The nomination process for the Padma Awards 2025, which will be announced on Republic Day, 2025, commenced on May 1, 2024. The final date for submitting nominations is September 15, 2024. Nominations and recommendations are being accepted online through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at https://awards.gov.in.

The Padma Awards, comprising the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are among India’s highest civilian honors. Established in 1954, these awards are presented annually on Republic Day to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in various fields, including Art, Literature, Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science, Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade, and Industry. The awards are open to all individuals, regardless of race, occupation, position, or gender. However, government employees, including those in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), are not eligible, with the exception of doctors and scientists.

The government continues its mission to make the Padma Awards more accessible to the public, often referred to as the “People’s Padma.” Citizens are encouraged to participate by nominating deserving individuals, including self-nominations. Special attention is given to recognizing talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, members of weaker sections of society, Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), persons with disabilities, and those who contribute selflessly to society.

Nominations should include all required details, as specified on the portal, along with a citation of up to 800 words that outlines the person’s achievements in their respective field.

Further information is available on the Ministry of Home Affairs website (https://mha.gov.in) and the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in). The rules and guidelines for the awards can be found at https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx.