National Award to Skill Trainers 2026: ₹50,000 Cash Prize, Eligibility & How to Apply

At a glance

About the scheme

Organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, this national award recognises exceptional faculty, trainers, and master trainers in both long-term and short-term vocational courses as well as entrepreneurship programmes. A total of 16 awards are presented annually across five designated categories to celebrate instructional excellence and establish high standards for skill development across the country.

Benefits

• A cash prize of ₹50,000
• A prestigious medal
• A formal certificate of excellence
• National level recognition across 16 annual awards

Who can apply (eligibility)

• The applicant must be working as a regular trainer, master trainer, or regular faculty member in an eligible institution
• The applicant must have at least 5 years of full-time experience in relevant CTS/CITS training or entrepreneurship development programmes
• The applicant must not be above 55 years of age on the closing date for applications
• Short-term trainers must be certified and registered on Skill India Digital Hub from a government institution with certification valid at least up to October 2025
• Entrepreneurship faculty must be teaching in institutions recognised by UGC, AICTE, an Act of Parliament, or Central/State Government
• Candidates may apply under only one award category

Who cannot apply

• Individuals who have already received any category of the Kaushalacharya Award in previous years
• Past recipients of the National Award for Excellence in Vocational Training & Entrepreneurship Development
• Applicants who are older than 55 years on the last date of application receipt

Documents required

• Proof of eligibility
• Details of contributions in training or entrepreneurship
• Supporting documents
• Completed nomination form
• Required declarations

How to apply

1. 1Visit the official National Awards Portal at awards.gov.in and click on the Registration option.
2. 2Choose between Individual or Organisation and fill in details such as name, date of birth, mobile number, email, and Aadhaar number to complete registration.
3. 3Log in to the National Awards Portal using your registered login credentials.
4. 4Locate the scheme from the award library and click on Nominate / Apply Now.
5. 5Fill out all mandatory details in the application form, attach the required documents, and submit your nomination.

Frequently asked questions