The nomination process for the Padma Awards 2027 has begun, with the Government inviting recommendations and nominations from citizens across the country through an online platform. The nominations opened on March 15, 2026 and will remain open until July 31, 2026.
The nominations and recommendations will be accepted exclusively through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal, which serves as the official digital platform for submitting entries for the prestigious civilian honours.
The Padma Awards, comprising Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, are among the highest civilian honours of India. Instituted in 1954, the awards are announced every year on the occasion of Republic Day to recognise work of distinction and exceptional service across diverse fields.
The awards honour distinguished achievements and contributions in disciplines such as art, literature and education, sports, medicine, social work, science and engineering, public affairs, civil service, trade and industry, among several other areas of public life.
All individuals, irrespective of race, occupation, position or gender, are eligible for the Padma Awards. However, government servants, including those working in public sector undertakings, are not eligible for the awards, except doctors and scientists.
The government has reiterated its commitment to transforming the honours into a true people driven recognition through the concept of People’s Padma. Citizens are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals, including through self nomination, to ensure that grassroots achievers and individuals engaged in selfless service receive national recognition.
Authorities have urged citizens to identify outstanding personalities, particularly from women, weaker sections of society, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and persons with disabilities, whose contributions to society deserve recognition at the national level.
Nominations submitted through the portal must include complete details in the prescribed format, clearly outlining the distinguished achievements and exceptional service rendered by the individual in their respective field.
Detailed guidelines, statutes and rules related to the awards are available under the Awards and Medals section of the Ministry of Home Affairs website as well as on the Padma Awards portal.
