Nominations for Padma Awards-2027 open till 31st July, 2026

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Home Affairs has opened nominations and recommendations for the 2027 Padma Awards, which commenced on March 15, 2026. These prestigious civilian honors—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—aim to recognize exceptional service across various disciplines and will be announced on Republic Day 2027. All submissions must be completed online via the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal by the deadline of July 31, 2026. **Key Points / Main Content** **Award Categories and Purpose** * The awards include the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, representing some of India's highest civilian honors. * The awards recognize "work of distinction" and exceptional achievements in fields such as Art, Literature, Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science and Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, and Trade and Industry. **Eligibility and Exclusions** * All persons are eligible regardless of race, occupation, position, or sex. * Government servants, including those working with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), are ineligible for these awards. * An exception to the government servant exclusion is made for Doctors and Scientists, who remain eligible. **Nomination Guidelines** * The government aims to transform the honors into a “People’s Padma” by encouraging self-nominations and recommendations from all citizens. * There is a specific emphasis on identifying talented individuals from women, weaker sections of society, SCs & STs, divyang persons, and those performing selfless service. * Nominations must be submitted exclusively online through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in). * Submissions must include a narrative citation (maximum 800 words) detailing the distinguished achievements of the person recommended. **Impact Analysis** **Indian Citizens** **Impact** Citizens have the opportunity to participate in the "People's Padma" initiative by nominating themselves or others who have demonstrated exceptional service to society. **Action Required** Identify deserving candidates and submit nominations, including the required 800-word citation, on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal before July 31, 2026. **Government and PSU Servants** **Impact** The majority of these individuals are disqualified from receiving Padma Awards to maintain the distinction of the honors. **Action Required** No action is required as they are ineligible, unless they fall under the specific categories of Doctors or Scientists. **Government Doctors and Scientists** **Impact** Unlike other government employees, they remain eligible for national recognition for their distinguished service and achievements. **Action Required** Submit or ensure the submission of nominations through the online portal by the specified deadline, following the standard citation format.

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