National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities: National Awards for Institutions Engaged in Empowering Persons with Disabilities: Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan Ke Karyanvayan/badhamukta Vatavaran Ke Srijan Mein Sarvshrestha Rajya/ Ut/ Zila is a prestigious recognition by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. This scheme identifies and honors states, union territories, or districts that show outstanding commitment to Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan by encouraging barrier-free environments and inclusive workspaces for persons with disabilities through accessible infrastructure and services.
National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities - Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan Ke Karyanvayan - Introduction
National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities: National Awards for Institutions Engaged in Empowering Persons with Disabilities: Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan Ke Karyanvayan/badhamukta Vatavaran Ke Srijan Mein Sarvshrestha Rajya/ Ut/ Zila highlights the dedication of administrative bodies in building an inclusive India. Since 1969, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has presented these annual awards to celebrate exceptional work in improving accessibility and independence for individuals with disabilities.
This scheme specifically honors entities that excel in the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan. It recognizes the efforts in creating barrier-free public environments, including accessible workplaces, easy toilet facilities, and clear communication through sign language. These improvements promote dignity and smooth movement for everyone. Recipients are typically honored at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on the 3rd of December, which coincides with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, marking a big step toward national inclusion.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities |
|---|---|
| Level | Central |
| Scheme For | Infrastructure |
| Beneficiary States | All |
| Category | Social Welfare and Empowerment |
| Target Beneficiaries | State Government, UT Administrations, Districts |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment |
| Nodal Department | Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities |
| Application Mode | Online on awards.gov.in |
Benefits
When an entity wins this award, it receives a formal Certificate and a Shield to recognize the institution's dedication to inclusive infrastructure.
The department also helps with participation in the awards ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. To support travel and stay:
- The Department covers the boarding and lodging expenses for the awardee and one escort.
- Travel expenses for the awardee and escort (equivalent to a Class-I officer of the Central Government) are reimbursed.
- Accommodation costs for up to one day before and after the ceremony date are covered by the Department.
Eligibility
This award is open to any State, UT, Autonomous Body, PSU, or non-governmental organization registered under the Trust Act, Society Act, or Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.
The evaluation focuses on accessibility achievements, categorized as follows:
- Public Building Accessibility (15% Weightage): Number of public buildings (such as parks, hospitals, police stations, and libraries) made universally accessible using Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan funds.
- Financial Implementation (15% Weightage): Efficient use of disbursed funds for accessibility projects since 2015-16.
- Technical Retrofitting (30% Weightage): Successful installation of features like accessible parking, tactile paths, ramps, lifts, inclusive toilets, and audio-visual signage.
- State-Funded Initiatives (20% Weightage): Projects completed using state resources to improve public accessibility.
- Screening Oversight (20% Weightage): Additional parameters defined by the screening committee to assess the quality of impact.
Application Process
Applications are submitted exclusively through the official online portal. For the year 2026, the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal was open from 15th May to 31st July 2026. The scheme remains active and the awards for 2026 are presented on 3rd December 2026.
Follow these steps to apply:
STEP 1 - Visit the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal.
STEP 2 - Click on Register if you are a new user. Enter your details and submit to receive login credentials on your mobile number.
STEP 3 - Log in to the portal and locate National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
STEP 4 - Click on Nominate / Apply Now, fill in the required fields with accuracy, and attach your supporting documents.
STEP 5 - Review your details carefully and click Submit. Once submitted, you cannot edit your application further.
Documents
Make sure you have the following documents ready for your application:
- Certificate of Registration proving your year of establishment.
- Valid Proof of Address for communication.
- Documentation supporting the nature of your institutional work.
- Citations of special achievements or awards received in the last 10 years at international, national, state, district, or organizational levels.
- A detailed list of previous honors, including the name of the agency and year of conferment.
- Any additional achievements you wish the committee to consider.
For the sub-categories of Sarvshreshth Divyangjan, Shreshth Divyangjan, and Shreshth Srijansheel Divyang Bal/Balika, uploading the UDID Card or Disability Certificate is mandatory.
References
Official Scheme Guidelines 2026
Call for Applications 2026 Public Notice
Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
FAQ's
When was this award first introduced?
This award was first introduced in 1969 to honor contributions toward the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Can I submit my application in physical form?
No, you should only submit applications through the official online portal. Physical or direct submissions to the Department are not considered.
Are there separate awards for different categories?
Yes, you can apply for multiple categories, but only one award can be granted to an entity in a single year.
How do I upload multiple documents?
You may combine multiple pages into a single PDF document (up to 5 MB size) and upload it in the designated supporting section.
Can I change my details after final submission?
No, once you click the final submit button, you are unable to modify the information in your application.