Rakshak Puraskars Award is a state-level recognition by the Government of Goa for citizens who show exceptional courage in protecting or helping victims of violence, harassment, or attacks against women and girls. The Directorate of Women and Child Development gives this honor to two outstanding people every year on Independence Day, held on 15th August, along with a cash prize of ₹ 20,000 each.
Goa government launched this award in 2015 to encourage everyone to step forward and uphold the respect and dignity of women, whether at home, in the workplace, or in public places. If you have gone beyond your normal duty to protect or support a woman or girl facing trouble, you can be a candidate for this recognition.
Rakshak Puraskars Award - Introduction
Rakshak Puraskars Award is run by the Directorate of Women and Child Development, Government of Goa. The award honors two individuals every Independence Day, held on 15th August. The scheme rewards citizens who show remarkable bravery in adverse situations, whether at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces.
By celebrating these heroes, the government aims to encourage everyone to uphold the respect and dignity of women throughout Goa. The recognition comes with a formal scroll or citation along with a cash prize of ₹ 20,000. Applications are invited through the official channels of the department every year before the award ceremony.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Rakshak Puraskars Award |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Goa |
| Category | Social Welfare & Empowerment, Public Safety, Law & Justice |
| Nodal Department | Women and Child Development Department |
| Benefit | Scroll or citation and ₹ 20,000 cash prize |
Benefits
Each of the two annual recipients receives a formal scroll or citation along with a generous cash prize of ₹ 20,000 to honor their valor and contribution to society. This cash prize is meant to encourage more citizens to come forward and help women and girls in trouble.
Eligibility
To be considered for this award, you should meet the following criteria:
- You should have demonstrated exceptional courage in protecting, helping, or supporting victims of violence, attacks, or harassment directed at women and girls.
- You can be from any profession, such as a doctor, police officer, lawyer, teacher, social worker, bus driver, or even a tourist guide.
- You must be a resident of Goa for at least 05 years as of 1st January of the award year, OR you must have worked in the state for at least two years.
- You should be at least 25 years old by 1st January of the respective year.
- You must not have received any other award in the same field during the current year.
Application Process
The application is submitted offline to the Directorate of Women and Child Development. Follow these steps to apply for the award.
STEP 1 - Download and complete the official application form. Fill in all details, paste a passport-sized photograph, and sign across it.
STEP 2 - Prepare your document file and include all the required supporting documents listed below.
STEP 3 - Submit your physical application and supporting materials to the Office of the Directorate of Women & Child Development, Old Education Building, 2nd Floor, 18th June Road, Panaji, Goa 403001.
STEP 4 - Collect your acknowledgement receipt after submitting your documents so that you can track your application.
Helpdesk
If you have questions, you should contact the Directorate at 2235308 or 2426112 during office hours.
Documents
When preparing your application, you should include the following documents:
- Passport size photograph duly attested by a Gazetted Officer.
- Proof of Identity.
- A soft copy of your application stored on a CD in Word (.doc/.docx) format.
- A brief life sketch including your age and qualifications as per Annexure A.
- Copies of certificates, press clippings, or appreciation letters and relevant photographs.
- Residential Certificate.
- Bank details including your account number, bank name, branch, and IFSC code.
References
Official Guidelines and Application Form
Official Website of Government of Goa
FAQ's
Can I apply if I am already receiving another award?
No, you should not be a recipient of any other award in the same field during the same year to qualify for this scheme.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, you must be 25 years or older as of 1st January of the year in which you are applying.
How many people receive this award annually?
The government selects two deserving individuals each year to receive this honor.
Can I submit a self-nomination?
Yes, individuals are welcome to submit self-nominations as long as they satisfy all eligibility requirements.
Are there residency requirements?
Yes, you must have been a resident of Goa for at least 05 years or have worked in the state for at least two years.
What is the benefit amount?
Each recipient is awarded a scroll or citation and a cash prize of ₹ 20,000.
