The National Awards for Outstanding Services in the Field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse is a prestigious initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), Government of India. Launched to recognize and encourage excellence in combating alcoholism and drug abuse, this award acknowledges the significant contributions made by both individuals and institutions. By honoring those who have implemented innovative and effective awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs, the scheme aims to further the cause of drug demand reduction and support the rehabilitation of affected individuals.
Benefits
- Recognition: Awardees receive a prestigious citation and memento.
- Monetary Reward: A cash prize of ₹4,00,000 is awarded to each winner.
- Travel and Accommodation: All travel, boarding, and lodging expenses for awardees and one companion are covered by the central government.
- Ceremonial Honors: The awards are presented by the President or the Prime Minister of India, underlining the national significance of the achievement.
Eligibility
- Open to All: The awards are open to all Indian institutions, organizations, and individuals working in the field of prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse, regardless of religion, race, sex, caste, or creed.
- Nomination Process:
- Nominees must be recommended in writing by an authorized person or agency. Self-nominations are not accepted.
- Authorized nominators include government ministries, state governments, union territory administrations, regional resource and training centres, members of the National Consultative Committee on De-addiction and Rehabilitation, recognized apex chambers (e.g., FICCI, CII), past awardees, and certain educational and regulatory bodies.
- Repetition Clause: An individual or organization that has been awarded once is not eligible for the award for the next three cycles.
Agencies/Persons Authorized to Nominate
- Government Authorities: Concerned ministries or departments of the Government of India and their autonomous bodies.
- State Governments/UT Administrations: With approval from the Chief Minister or Lt. Governors.
- Regional Resource Centres: Working in drug de-addiction within their jurisdiction.
- Consultative Committee Members: Including those from the National Consultative Committee on De-addiction and Rehabilitation.
- Apex Chambers: Renowned industry bodies like FICCI, CII, and others.
- Past Awardees: Can also nominate new candidates.
- Other Recognized Organizations: Such as UGC, AICTE, MCI, NYKS, CBSE, NCERT, KVS, NVS, CSIR, etc.
Application Process
Online Submission
- Access the National Awards Portal:
- Authorized nominators must submit the nomination using the prescribed proforma available on the National Awards Portal of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Language Requirement:
- The application must be submitted in either Hindi or English.
- Screening and Selection:
- A Screening Committee and a Selection Committee evaluate the nominations based on the impact, innovation, and sustainability of the awareness campaigns or rehabilitation initiatives.
- A National Selection Committee reviews recommendations from the Screening Committee and approves one awardee per category.
- Final Approval:
- The nominees’ concurrence is verified prior to the announcement of the awards.
Documents Required
For Individuals
- Proof of Identity: Passport, Election ID, or other government-authorized ID.
- Date of Birth Certificate.
- Educational and Professional Credentials: Certificates, marksheets, and details of work experience related to the field of alcohol or drug abuse prevention.
- Proof of Notable Contributions: Evidence of publications, awards, or other recognition in the field.
- Detailed Report: Documentation of contributions in awareness generation, prevention, treatment, training, research, or advocacy in drug de-addiction.
- Supporting Documents: Any additional evidence demonstrating outstanding achievements.
For Institutions/Organizations
- Registration Certificate/Memorandum of Association.
- Proof of Organizational Category: Classification (IRCA, RRTC, NGO, PSU, or private sector).
- Proof of Address.
- Minutes of General Body Meetings (last five years).
- Annual Reports and Audited Balance Sheets (last five years).
- Publications/Media Coverage: Copies of articles, books, or publications.
- Awards/Honors: Documentation of any past recognitions.
- Project Reports: Details of past projects in drug de-addiction, including financial support received.
- Additional Relevant Documents: Any other material that highlights the organization’s contribution and achievements in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many times is this award presented in a year?
A1: The awards are presented once every two years.
Q2: For what achievements is this award conferred?
A2: The award recognizes outstanding services in the prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse, including innovative awareness campaigns and rehabilitation efforts.
Q3: What are the objectives of presenting this award?
A3: The objective is to encourage excellence in drug abuse prevention and rehabilitation, recognize exemplary contributions, and inspire others to take proactive measures in this field.
Q4: What is meant by “other addictive substances”?
A4: This includes substances like cough syrups and correction fluid, excluding tobacco and its products.
Q5: Which is the nodal ministry for drug demand reduction?
A5: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) is the nodal ministry.
Q6: What are the duties and responsibilities of the MoSJE in this regard?
A6: The MoSJE coordinates and monitors drug abuse prevention efforts, including assessment, preventive actions, treatment, rehabilitation, public education, and community-based services.
Q7: Which day is declared as the “International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking”?
A7: The day is 26th June.
Q8: Who can become a nominee for this award?
A8: Indian institutions, organizations, and individuals working effectively in the field of alcoholism and drug abuse prevention are eligible, provided they are nominated by authorized agencies.
Q9: Is there any preference given to a particular section of society?
A9: The award is open to all without discrimination; however, nominations must be supported by adequate justification from authorized agencies.
Q10: Can an entity self-nominate for this award?
A10: No, self-nominations are not accepted.
Q11: When can an individual be considered again for the award if they have already been awarded?
A11: An individual or organization that has received an award is ineligible for the next three cycles.
Q12: Where can I find the scheme guidelines and the user manual of the application process?
A12: The guidelines and user manual can be accessed on the official portal of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and through Awardpedia.