The central government has officially opened the nomination process for the prestigious Padma Awards 2026. It has urged nominations and recommendations from various fields to be submitted by July 31 through the National Awards portal: [https://awards.gov.in](https://awards.gov.in).
The Padma Awards, comprising Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, are among the highest civilian honors in the country. Instituted in 1954, these awards recognize outstanding contributions in diverse fields, including literature, social service, arts, sports, science, public service, and business. However, employees working in government and public sector undertakings, except doctors and scientists, are ineligible for these honors.
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The government has reiterated its commitment to transforming the Padma Awards into “People’s Awards.” Citizens can now self-nominate for these honors. Additionally, individuals from marginalized communities, women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and differently-abled persons who have rendered exceptional service to society are encouraged to apply.
Further details are available on the Ministry of Home Affairs’ official website.