Nari Shakti Puraskar 2026: ₹2,00,000 Award for Women Empowerment

At a glance

About the scheme

The Nari Shakti Puraskar has been introduced by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, to acknowledge the achievements of women and recognize their contributions to society and the nation. The award is conferred annually on individuals in recognition of their exceptional service towards the cause of women’s empowerment, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized women.

Benefits

• A certificate and a cash amount of ₹2,00,000/- per awardee.
• Maximum of 15 awards per year (relaxation possible at the discretion of the Selection Committee).
• Travel expenses reimbursed by economy class via shortest route (Air India or permitted airline) for awardee to and from Delhi.
• Boarding and lodging arranged for three days (one day prior and one day after the award ceremony).
• In special circumstances, travel expenses for one companion may be reimbursed if the awardee is over 70 years, Divyangjan/person with disability, belongs to BPL category, or is illiterate/has a language barrier.

Who can apply (eligibility)

• Open to individuals only.
• Applicant must be at least 25 years of age on 1st July of the award year.
• Applicant must not be a previous recipient of the Nari Shakti Puraskar or the earlier Stree Shakti Puraskar.
• Awarded for outstanding work in areas such as economic and social empowerment of women, leadership, education, health, safety, skill development, science and technology, sports, art, culture, and dignity of women.
• May also be awarded to a State or Union Territory that has appreciably improved Child Sex Ratio (CSR).
• Normally not awarded posthumously, except if death occurs after a proposal has been submitted to the Ministry.

Documents required

• Identity proof
• Proof of age
• Details of work carried out by the nominee for which the award is being recommended
• Other supporting documents as required

How to apply

1. 1Visit the designated portal https://www.awards.gov.in during the nomination window (1st July to 31st October).
2. 2Fill in the online application form with personal and work details.
3. 3Upload identity proof, proof of age, details of work, and any other supporting documents.
4. 4Submit the application before the closing date (31st October).
5. 5Applications are forwarded to concerned State/UT and district authorities for verification.
6. 6The Screening Committee scrutinises nominations; the Selection Committee selects the awardees based on recommendations.

Frequently asked questions