National Youth Award is an initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports aimed at recognizing young individuals and voluntary organizations for their exceptional contributions to national development and social service. The award motivates young people (ages 15-29) to work towards national progress and social causes, encouraging them to contribute positively to their communities and develop their personal potential as responsible citizens. The award recognizes outstanding efforts in fields such as health, research and innovation, culture, human rights, sports, and smart learning, among others.
Objectives of the Award
The primary objectives of the National Youth Award are:
- Motivating young persons aged 15-29 years to achieve excellence in national or social service.
- Encouraging youth to develop a sense of responsibility toward their community, improving their potential as good citizens.
- Recognition of outstanding work done by individuals and organizations for national development and social service.
- Acknowledging the contributions of voluntary organizations working with youth for social service and national development.
Ceremony Details
The National Youth Award is presented at a special ceremony, which takes place every year. The exact date and time are announced in advance.
Selection Process
- Screening Committee: A screening process is carried out under the Chairmanship of the Joint Secretary of the Department of Youth Affairs. The committee reviews all applications and proposes the names of potential awardees.
- Central Selection Committee: This committee, headed by the Secretary of the Department of Youth Affairs, makes the final selection based on the recommendations from the screening committee. The committee can also consider other nominations based on merit.
Benefits
- Individual Awards:
- Medal, Certificate, and ₹1,00,000/- as a cash prize.
- Voluntary Youth Organization Awards:
- Medal, Certificate, and ₹3,00,000/- as a cash prize.
Eligibility
- For Individuals:
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Must be between 15 to 29 years of age as of 1st January of the nominated year.
- Must have done extraordinary and identifiable social work.
- Individuals employed in government services (Central/State Governments, PSUs, Universities, etc.) are not eligible.
- The award can be received only once in a lifetime.
- For Voluntary Organizations:
- Must be registered under the Registration of Societies Act, 1860 (or corresponding State Act) for at least 3 years.
- Should be a non-profit organization.
- Must not discriminate based on sex, religion, caste, or creed.
- Should have contributed extraordinary service in the youth field for at least 3 years.
- The organization must have a good reputation in the local community.
- Should not have received this award in previous years.
Application Process
- Online Registration:
- Visit the official website.
- Click on the Registration button and select Individual or Organization.
- For Individuals: Provide details like name, DOB, mobile number, email ID, and Aadhaar number.
- For Organizations: Provide details like type of organization, authorized person’s name, brief description of the organization, and Aadhaar number.
- Apply Online:
- After registering, log in to the portal using the credentials.
- Select the scheme name and click on “Nominate / Apply Now”.
- Complete the application form, fill in all mandatory fields, and click “Submit”.
Documents Required
- Proof of Date of Birth (DOB).
- Supporting documents for outstanding work done.
- Recommendation letter from relevant authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the National Youth Award? The National Youth Award recognizes young individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to national development and social service.
- Who organizes the National Youth Award? The award is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.
- What is the eligibility criterion for the National Youth Award? The award is open to individuals aged 15-29 years who have done extraordinary work in areas like health, education, and social service.
- In which categories are the National Youth Awards conferred? The awards are given for work done in various areas such as health, human rights, sports, culture, and social service.
- How can one apply or be nominated for the National Youth Award? Applications can be made online via the official portal. Both individuals and organizations can apply.
- Is there any monetary reward associated with the National Youth Award? Yes, individuals receive ₹1,00,000 and voluntary youth organizations receive ₹3,00,000 along with medals and certificates.
- Can organizations or institutions be honored with the National Youth Award? Yes, voluntary youth organizations can be honored with the award.
- What benefits are provided to the Individual? The individual receives a medal, certificate, and ₹1,00,000 as a cash prize.
- What benefits are provided to the Voluntary Youth Organization? The organization receives a medal, certificate, and ₹3,00,000 as a cash prize.