Nalanda Award

Nalanda Award is a state-level scheme run by the Social Justice and Empowerment Department of Gujarat. It honors voluntary organizations that show outstanding dedication to social welfare by supporting socially and educationally backward communities (SEBC). Winners get a Nalanda Award of Rs 1.00 lakh along with formal appreciation from the state government.

The scheme is still open for organizations working in Gujarat. Applications are submitted online through the eSamajKalyan portal. It encourages groups to keep working for the upliftment of backward classes and shows good practices that can be copied in other areas.

Nalanda Award - Introduction

Nalanda Award is a recognition granted by the Government of Gujarat to voluntary organizations for their special and exclusive service toward the betterment of SEBC, including the more at risk castes. The main aim is to find, honor and support groups that quietly do strong social work. Formal recognition plus a cash prize of Rs 1.00 lakh helps these organizations continue and grow their work.

The scheme is managed by the Director, Developing Castes Welfare under the Social Justice and Empowerment Department based in Gandhinagar. Applicant organizations must have made clear and measurable contributions that directly benefit socially and educationally backward classes in the state.

Key Information

Benefits

Selected organizations get a Nalanda Award of Rs 1.00 lakh from the Government of Gujarat. This cash support comes with formal appreciation and public recognition of the group's work. The honor helps an organization raise its credibility and reach, which often opens doors to more funding and partnerships for future social projects.

The benefit is given as an award for past service rather than as routine monthly support. So the amount depends on the department's assessment of the organization's documented contribution to the welfare of SEBC communities.

Eligibility

Any voluntary organization working in the field of social welfare can apply, provided it has made strong and documented contributions to the benefit of socially and educationally backward classes in Gujarat. Individual citizens are not eligible; the award is meant only for organizations.

For example, an NGO such as a literacy or skill-training group working with SEBC families would be a suitable candidate. A newly formed organization can also apply if it can show verifiable proof of impactful work done within its starting period.

Application Process

Online Registration Process

To apply, an organization must first go to the official eSamajKalyan portal and open the Nalanda Award section. On the Application Process page, click on Apply Now and then select the New User option. Registration requires entering the organization details, mobile number and email, after which a User ID and password are created.

Application Submission

STEP 1 - Log in to the eSamajKalyan portal using the User ID, password and captcha code, then click on Login.

STEP 2 - Read the Nalanda Award scheme rules carefully and click OK to accept and proceed.

STEP 3 - Check the permanent address shown on screen. If it is correct, confirm it; otherwise enter the correct address and click Save & Next.

STEP 4 - Upload all the required documents on the form and review every detail entered.

STEP 5 - If anything needs to change, select No, Cancel. If all details are right, click Yes, Submit and then Save Application.

Note down the Application Number for future reference and take a printout by using the Print Application option. The application status can be followed on the official status tracking page.

Documents

Keep the following papers ready before starting the online form:

• Aadhaar Card of the authorized representative of the organization.
• Bank passbook or a cancelled cheque that clearly shows the organization's account details.
• Recent passport size photographs of the head or authorized signatory of the organization.

References

Further details and official guidelines are available at the links below:

• Nalanda Award scheme page by Director, Developing Castes Welfare
• Guidelines (Scheme No. 371)
• Official user manual for eSamajKalyan portal

FAQ's

What is Nalanda Award and why is it given?

Nalanda Award is a state-level recognition by the Government of Gujarat that honors voluntary organizations for their strong and exclusive service toward the upliftment of socially and educationally backward communities.

Who can apply for Nalanda Award under this scheme?

Only registered organizations such as NGOs or government bodies that actively work for social welfare in Gujarat can apply. Private individuals are not eligible.

How much financial support does a winner receive?

Winning organizations receive a Nalanda Award of Rs 1.00 lakh along with formal appreciation from the Social Justice and Empowerment Department.

Is Nalanda Award available to organizations in all parts of Gujarat?

Yes, any eligible organization working anywhere within the state of Gujarat can apply for the award.

How is the final selection made?

Selection is based on the documented impact of the social work, the authenticity and long-term nature of the projects, and the overall benefit provided to SEBC communities.

Can a newly established organization apply?

Yes, a new organization can apply if it can show verifiable proof of impactful social work done even within a short span of time.

What is the mode of application?

Applications are handled fully online through the official eSamajKalyan portal.

Which documents are required for the application?

You need the Aadhaar card details, bank account verification through a passbook or cancelled cheque, and recent photographs of the organization representative.

Whom should an organization contact for further help?

For help, contact the Social Justice and Empowerment Department through its official website at sje.gujarat.gov.in.