Every year, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, confers the “National Award for Senior Citizens (Vayoshreshtha Samman)” to eminent senior citizens and institutions/organizations for their distinguished service towards elderly persons, especially the indigent. The “Vayoshreshtha Samman: Creative Art” award is specifically conferred to senior citizens of national or international acclaim who have made outstanding contributions to literature, theatre, cinema, music, dance, painting, sculpture, photography, and other art forms, while continuing to be active in their field well into their old age.
Benefits
- Decoration:
Awardees receive a Certificate, a Memento, and a Cash Award of ₹2,50,000/-. - Total Awardees:
A total of 15 awardees are recognized across 13 categories. - Ceremony Perks:
- The award is presented on 1st October at a special ceremony held on the International Day of Older Persons in New Delhi at Vigyan Bhawan.
- The award is presented by either the President of India or the Prime Minister of India.
- Boarding, lodging, and travel expenses (including for one companion) are borne by the Central Government.
- TA/DA is provided at a rate equivalent to that of a Joint Secretary to the Government of India.
Eligibility
For the Nominee
- Artistic Excellence:
The applicant must be a winner of national or international acclaim for their contributions in literature, theatre, cinema, music, dance, painting, sculpture, photography, etc. - Active Contribution:
The nominee should continue to be active in their artistic field well into their old age. - Exemplary Achievement:
The nominee must have an exemplary record in promoting and disseminating art, with their work recognized widely. - Social Message:
The art produced by the nominee should carry social messages on contemporary issues, reflecting a commitment to societal betterment.
For the Nominating Agencies/Individuals
- Ministries or Departments of the Government of India and their autonomous organizations.
- State Governments or Union Territory Administrations.
- Past recipients of Padma Awards, Vayoshreshtha Samman, and other National Awards.
- Members of the National Council of Senior Citizens (NCSrC).
- Renowned apex chambers such as FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM, and other recognized organizations.
- Any other persons or institutions authorized by the Ministry from time to time.
Note:
- The awards are open to all Indian institutions, organizations, and individuals regardless of religion, race, sex, caste, or creed.
- Nominations must be recommended in writing by an authorized individual or organization.
- Self-nominations will not be considered.
Application Process
Online Registration
- Registration:
- Visit the National Awards Portal and click “Register” at the top right of the homepage.
- Fill in all mandatory fields (marked with a red asterisk), check the declaration boxes, complete the Captcha, and click “Submit”.
- Login credentials will be sent to the registered mobile number.
Application Submission
- Login:
- Use the credentials received to log in to the National Awards Portal.
- Nomination:
- From the list of awards, select “Vayoshreshtha Samman – National Awards for Senior Citizens” and click on “Nominate / Apply Now”.
- Complete the online nomination form by filling in all mandatory fields and click “Submit”.
Documents Required
For the Creative Art category, applicants should provide the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Recent Photograph
- Bio-data
- Proof of Age
- Proof of Address
- Proof of Educational Qualification (e.g., Passing Certificate, Marksheet)
- Proof of Professional Experience
- Detailed description of work done in the last three years in the relevant field
- Details of awards and honours received
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What are the objectives of this scheme?
To recognize and honor senior citizens who have made significant contributions in the field of art and to acknowledge institutions/organizations involved in elderly welfare. -
When are these awards conferred?
The awards are conferred on 1st October every year, coinciding with the International Day of Older Persons. -
Who confers these awards?
The awards are presented by the Hon’ble President of India or the Prime Minister of India at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. -
How many categories are there in this award?
Awards are given across 13 categories, with the Creative Art category being one of the individual categories. -
What is the cash award for this category?
Each awardee receives a cash award of ₹2,50,000/- along with a Certificate and a Memento. -
Will the travel and accommodation expenses be reimbursed?
Yes, the boarding, lodging, and to-and-fro travelling expenses for the awardee and one companion are covered by the Central Government. -
Can I nominate myself for this award?
No, self-nominations are not accepted. The nomination must come from an authorized agency or individual. -
Where can I find the application form and further details?
All relevant information, including the nomination process and application form, is available on the National Awards Portal on the official Government of India website.