AI SummaryNari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women is a prestigious annual recognition by the Ministry of Women and Child Development for individuals who have dedicated exceptional service to the cause of women's empowerment, especially for at-risk and left out groups. This scheme honors these contributions with a certificate and a cash reward of ₹2,00,000 so that more people feel inspired to work for progress of society.
Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women - Details
Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women serves as a platform to celebrate the achievements of women and recognize their valuable contributions to society and the nation. The Ministry of Women and Child Development awards these honors every year to recognize exceptional service toward the cause of women's empowerment, particularly for poor and left out sections.
Candidates should note that the winners for Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women are declared every year by 20th February. The official presentation of these awards happens on 8th March to mark International Women's Day.
Nominations for 2026 are being accepted on the official National Awards Portal. The scheme is open to individuals, institutions and organizations working for women's empowerment across the country.
The main aims of this scheme are to:
- Show the government's commitment to strengthening the status of women by encouraging their participation in all areas of life, so issues related to women get focused attention.
- Give young Indians a chance to understand the important role women play in building the nation.
- Inspire citizens to follow the path shown by these distinguished awardees.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women |
| Level | Central |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | All |
| Category | Women and Child |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual, NGO, State Government |
| Benefit Type | Composite |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Women and Child Development |
| Tags | Woman, Nari Shakti, Puraskar, Award, Women Empowerment |
Benefits
When you receive the Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women, you are presented with a certificate and a cash amount of ₹2,00,000. While the program typically selects up to 15 awardees, the selection committee may allow a higher number if it chooses to do so.
About the award presentation:
- The ceremony is held in New Delhi on 8th March, the International Women's Day.
- The ministry covers your travel expenses by economy class (shortest route) via Air India or other permitted airlines. Your boarding and lodging for three days are also arranged by the ministry.
- If you fall into specific categories like being over 70 years old, a Person with Disability (divyangjan), belonging to the BPL category, or needing language support, the ministry may also cover travel expenses for one companion.
The award amount and the number of awards can change from one year to the next, so it is better to check the official notification released for the current year.
Eligibility
To apply for the Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women, you should fulfill the following criteria:
- Be an individual applicant.
- Be at least 25 years of age on 1st July of the year you apply.
- Not have received this award previously (including the former Stree Shakti Puraskars).
- Show outstanding work in areas like the social or economic empowerment of women.
- Have encouraged women's participation in decision-making, skill development, healthcare, science, sports, or safety initiatives.
Additionally, a state or union territory that has shown significant improvement in the Child Sex Ratio (CSR) may receive an award. Note that the scheme does not generally present awards posthumously unless in very specific circumstances where the proposal was already submitted.
You may submit your nominations through state governments, union territory administrations, NGOs, or universities. Self-nominations are also welcomed and considered by the committee.
Application Process
You should complete your application process through the online National Awards Portal at National Awards Portal for Nari Shakti Puraskar. The portal is typically open from 1st July to 31st October each year.
The steps follow a clear flow:
STEP 1 - Visit the official National Awards Portal and submit your application along with the required documents.
STEP 2 - The ministry will verify your claims by coordinating with local government agencies like District Magistrates.
STEP 3 - A Screening Committee will examine your application and shortlist candidates based on their achievements.
STEP 4 - A final Selection Committee will review the recommendations to pick the awardees.
Remember that the ministry does not accept offline or postal applications. Please make sure you monitor the official website for any specific updates regarding deadline changes.
Documents
When you prepare your application, make sure you keep the following documents ready:
- A valid identity proof.
- A proof of age document.
- A detailed note outlining the specific work you performed to earn this nomination.
- Any other supporting document that validates your social impact or achievements.
References
Nari Shakti Puraskar Details on Transforming India | Nari Shakti Puraskar Nomination Circular PDF | Scheme Details
FAQ's
What is the main objective of the Nari Shakti Puraskar - National Award for Women?
The main objective is to recognize and encourage outstanding effort toward women's empowerment, especially for those in at-risk or poor positions, helping to strengthen their overall status in society.
How often is this award given out?
The award is conferred annually.
On which occasion is the award ceremony held?
The ministry presents the award on 8th March, coinciding with International Women's Day.
When are the recipients usually announced?
The names of the awardees are declared by 20th February each year.
Who can apply for this recognition?
Individuals who are at least 25 years old as of 1st July of the award year can apply.
Can a previous recipient apply again?
No, if you have already received the Nari Shakti Puraskar or the earlier Stree Shakti Puraskar, you are not eligible to apply again.
What fields are covered by this award?
It covers outstanding work in social or economic empowerment, health, education, sports, art, culture, and efforts made toward the dignity and safety of women.
Can a state receive this award?
Yes, a State or Union Territory may receive an award if they have significantly improved their Child Sex Ratio.
How many awards are granted each year?
A maximum of 15 awards are granted annually, though the committee may adjust this number if necessary.
Who is eligible to nominate candidates?
State governments, UT administrations, NGOs, universities, and PSUs can nominate candidates, or you may submit a self-nomination.
How must I submit my nomination?
You must submit your nomination online through the dedicated National Awards Portal at https://www.awards.gov.in.
Are paper applications accepted?
No, the ministry does not consider any offline or postal applications.
Who makes the final selection of awardees?
The Selection Committee appointed by the ministry selects the winners after reviewing the Screening Committee's report.
Where is the award ceremony held?
The event takes place in New Delhi.