Any child who is an Indian Citizen and residing in India, between the age of 5 and 18 years can apply (Pexels.com)

PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026 nominations open; apply till July 31

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has opened nominations for PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026. The award recognises children whose achievements and contributions have made a positive impact on society.

by · India Today

In Short

  • The President of India confers the annual honour on exceptional children
  • Indian residents aged five to 18 are eligible under notified rules
  • Achievements must have been made within two years before nomination deadline

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has opened nominations for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2026, one of the country's highest honours for children, with the last date for submitting applications set as July 31, 2026. The official website to apply is awards.gov.in.

The annual award, conferred by the President of India, recognises children who have demonstrated exceptional talent, courage, innovation and commitment while making a positive impact on society. Nominations can be submitted online through the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal. The Awards will be announced on December 26 on ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ at a special ceremony to be held in New Delhi.

Children between 5 and 18 years of age, as on July 31, 2026, are eligible to apply. Nominations may be submitted by individuals, schools, institutions, organisations, government bodies, or by the children themselves through self-nomination.

The awards recognise achievements in six categories:

  1. Bravery
  2. Social Service
  3. Environment
  4. Sports
  5. Art & Culture
  6. Science & Technology

PM RASHTRIYA BAL PURASKAR 2026: ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible, applicants must:

  1. Be Indian citizens residing in India;
  2. Be between 5 and 18 years of age as on July 31, 2026;
  3. Have made the achievement or contribution within the two years preceding the nomination deadline; and
  4. Not have previously received the PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar in any category.

PM RASHTRIYA BAL PURASKAR 2026: HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must register or log in to the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal at wards.gov.in, select "Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026" under the ongoing nominations section, choose the relevant category, and upload the required documents along with a write-up describing the child's achievement and its impact.

According to the government, the award aims to celebrate children whose resilience, creativity, leadership and dedication have inspired others and contributed meaningfully to society.

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