The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, has instituted the “National Awards for Outstanding Services in the Field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse.” This prestigious award recognizes and encourages excellence among institutions and individuals working in the prevention of abuse of alcohol, narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and other addictive substances (except tobacco). The award for Best Educational Institution honors those institutions that have demonstrated outstanding efforts in creating awareness and preventing alcohol and drug abuse through sustained activities, advocacy, and community outreach.
Objectives
-
Recognition of Excellence:
To acknowledge institutions and individuals who have made significant contributions to preventing alcohol and drug abuse and in rehabilitating its victims. -
Awareness and Prevention:
To promote initiatives that generate awareness among students and youth regarding the ill effects of substance abuse and encourage a drug-free lifestyle. -
Encouragement of Best Practices:
To stimulate continued efforts and innovation in education, community engagement, and policy development in the field of substance abuse prevention. -
Strengthening the Network:
To foster partnerships among government bodies, educational institutions, NGOs, and community-based organizations for a holistic approach to drug demand reduction.
Benefits
-
Decoration and Recognition:
Awardees receive a Citation, a Memento, and a cash award of ₹2,00,000. -
Prestige:
The awards are presented by the President of India or the Prime Minister of India during a ceremony held in New Delhi on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (26th June). -
Support for Awardees:
The Central Government covers boarding, lodging, and to-and-fro travel expenses (for one companion) associated with attending the award ceremony. -
Number of Awardees:
The scheme recognizes one awardee per category, with a total of 7 awardees across all categories.
Eligibility
-
Open to All:
The awards are open to all Indian institutions, organizations, and individuals irrespective of religion, race, sex, caste, or creed. -
Nomination Requirement:
Nominees must be recommended in writing by an authorized agency or individual. Self-nominations are not accepted. -
Exclusion Period:
An individual or organization that has received the award under this scheme will not be eligible for the next three award cycles. -
Specific Criteria for Educational Institutions:
Educational institutions applying for the award should have:- At least five years of active work in preventing alcoholism and substance abuse.
- Regular programs and activities to educate students and youth about the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs.
- Collaborations with government bodies or NGOs for awareness campaigns.
- Evident efforts in incorporating substance abuse prevention into their curriculum and extracurricular activities.
- Documented achievements such as media coverage, research publications, and successful community initiatives.
Application Process
Online Submission
-
Submission Portal:
Authorized agencies or persons must submit the nomination application using the prescribed proforma on the National Awards Portal managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. -
Language:
The application must be submitted in either Hindi or English. -
Process Details:
- Complete the nomination form with all required details.
- Provide supporting documentation and justification for the nomination.
- Ensure that the nomination comes from an authorized source (e.g., government department, recognized apex organization, past awardees, etc.).
Selection Process
-
Screening Committee:
A Screening Committee will review the nominations based on the quality and impact of the initiatives undertaken in preventing substance abuse. -
National Selection Committee:
The National Selection Committee will consider the recommendations from the Screening Committee and approve one awardee per category based on their outstanding contribution. -
Criteria Considered:
Emphasis is placed on the effectiveness, sustainability, and innovativeness of the work done in awareness generation and substance abuse prevention.
Documents Required
For Educational Institutions (Example for Best Educational Institution Category)
- Organizational Documents:
- Certificate of Registration, Memorandum of Association, or equivalent.
- Proof of operational status for at least five years.
- Achievement Evidence:
- Annual reports, balance sheets, and audited accounts (last five years).
- Media clippings, publications, or articles highlighting the institution’s work.
- Details of specific programs, workshops, or campaigns conducted.
- Supporting Letters:
- Letters of recommendation or endorsement from relevant authorities or partner organizations.
- Other Documents:
- Any additional documents that substantiate the institution’s contribution to preventing alcohol and drug abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How many times is this award presented in a year?
The awards are conferred once every two years. -
For what achievements is this award conferred?
The award recognizes outstanding contributions in awareness generation, prevention, treatment, training, research, and advocacy in the field of alcoholism and substance abuse. -
Who can become a nominee for this award?
Nominees can be individuals or institutions actively engaged in substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation activities. -
Is there any preference given to any particular section of society?
No, the awards are open to all eligible candidates regardless of their background. -
Can an entity self-nominate for this award?
Self-nominations are not accepted. Nominees must be recommended by an authorized agency or person. -
What happens if a nominee provides incorrect information?
Incorrect or false declarations can lead to disqualification from the awards process, and further legal actions may be taken. -
Which day is celebrated as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking?
The awards ceremony is held on 26th June each cycle.