New Delhi – Nominations for the prestigious PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2026 have officially opened, inviting applications from across India to honor children demonstrating exceptional achievements. Interested individuals and organizations can submit nominations through the government's dedicated awards portal, awards.gov.in. The Ministry of Women and Child Development, which oversees the award, has set a firm deadline of July 31, 2024, for all submissions.

The PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is India's highest civilian honor for young individuals, conferred annually to children aged between 5 and 18 years. The award aims to recognize and celebrate children who have made extraordinary contributions or shown outstanding abilities in diverse fields, inspiring peers and the nation. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to acknowledging and nurturing young talent.

The award scheme seeks to identify children who have distinguished themselves through their courage, talent, and service. It provides a national platform to showcase their achievements and encourage their continued development. Each awardee receives a medal, a cash prize, and a certificate, typically presented by the President of India during the Republic Day week in January.

The six categories under which nominations are invited include:

  • Bravery: For acts of exemplary courage in challenging situations.
  • Sport: For outstanding achievements in national and international sporting events.
  • Social Service: For significant contributions to community welfare and societal improvement.
  • Science & Technology: For innovations and advancements in scientific and technological fields.
  • Art & Culture: For exceptional talent and contributions in various forms of art and culture.
  • Innovation: For developing novel ideas, solutions, or approaches with societal impact.

The nomination process requires detailed documentation outlining the child's achievements, supported by verifiable evidence. Applicants are advised to ensure all information is accurate and complete when submitting through the digital portal. Both self-nominations and nominations by individuals or organizations familiar with the child's achievements are accepted, provided they meet the specified criteria and age limits.

The PMRBP has historically celebrated remarkable young individuals who have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and dedication. Recognizing these children serves to foster a culture of excellence and inspire a new generation to pursue their passions and contribute positively to society. The selection process involves a rigorous evaluation by a national committee, which reviews all eligible nominations to identify the most deserving candidates for the 2026 awards. Further details regarding the evaluation stages will be communicated by the Ministry of Women and Child Development as the process advances.