PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026 nominations open: Children can apply online till July 31; check eligibility, categories and application process

The Government of India has opened nominations for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2026, inviting applications for one of the country's highest civilian honours for children. The annual award recognises exceptional young achievers who have demonstrated outstanding courage, innovation, leadership and excellence across diverse fields at a remarkably young age.

Children aged 5 to 18 years who have made significant contributions in areas such as bravery, sports, science and technology, social service, environment, and art and culture can now be nominated. Parents, teachers, schools, educational institutions, NGOs, community organisations and even the children themselves are eligible to submit nominations through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal. The last date to apply is July 31, 2026.

What is the PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar?

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is presented annually by the President of India to honour children who have displayed exceptional achievements or rendered distinguished service to society. The award aims to recognise young talent while inspiring children across the country to pursue excellence, innovation and social responsibility.

Award categories

Nominations are invited under the following six categories:

• Bravery
• Social Service
• Environment
• Sports
• Art and Culture
• Science and Technology

The award recognises achievements ranging from acts of courage and community service to scientific innovation, environmental conservation, sporting excellence and artistic accomplishments.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for PMRBP 2026:

• The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
• The child should be between 5 and 18 years of age as on July 31, 2026.
• The achievement must be exceptional, impactful and fall within the prescribed eligibility period.
• Previous recipients are generally not eligible to receive the same award again.

How to apply

The nomination process is completely online. Applicants need to register on the official Rashtriya Puraskar Portal, complete the candidate profile with personal details, select "Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026" under the list of ongoing awards, choose the appropriate category, upload supporting documents and submit the nomination before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to include certificates, photographs, media reports, recommendation letters and other documentary evidence that clearly demonstrates the child's achievement and impact.

Why the award matters

The PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar honours children who prove that age is no barrier to creating meaningful change. Over the years, recipients have included young scientists, innovators, environmental champions, sportspersons, artists, social contributors and brave children whose inspiring achievements have earned national recognition.

Besides celebrating individual excellence, the award encourages schools, parents and communities to identify and nurture extraordinary talent. Awardees receive recognition at a prestigious national ceremony and become role models for millions of young Indians, reinforcing the values of courage, creativity, compassion and service to society.

With nominations now open, eligible children from across India have an opportunity to be recognised for their remarkable achievements. Interested applicants are advised to complete the online nomination process well before July 31, 2026, to avoid last-minute delays.