The National Youth Award is an initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Government of India, that acknowledges the excellent efforts of youth as well as organizations working for volunteer services towards national development and social service. Through this award, the government encourages youth participation in the responsible management of their society, furthering self-potential as responsible citizens and inspiring excellence across all sectors of life.
The prize gives recognition to works in areas that involve health, research, culture, human rights, tourism, education, sports, innovation, community service, and much more.
Objective
- Mobilize Young People: Stimulate persons between 15 and 29 years to do better in social work or national improvement.
- Promote Responsibility: Encourage young persons to participate actively in the community, build a sense of responsibility, and develop citizenship.
- Award Outstanding Achievements: Acknowledge outstanding contributions of individuals and voluntary organizations for promoting social and national development.
- Support Voluntary Organizations: Emphasize and recognize the efforts of non-profit organizations that engage youth in activities of impact.
Awards Categories and Incentives
- For Individuals:
- Medal and Certificate.
- Cash Award of ₹1,00,000.
- For Voluntary Youth Organizations:
- Medal and Certificate.
- Cash Award of ₹3,00,000.
Eligibility Criteria
For Individuals:
- Applicant should be a citizen of India.
- Applicant age should be 15 to 29 years as of January 1 of the year for which the nomination is made.
- Applicant must have done identifiable, outstanding social work.
- Government servants working in Central/State/PSUs, universities, schools, etc., are not eligible.
- The award is lifetime and only granted once.
For Voluntary Organizations:
- Must be a registered not-for-profit organization under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or corresponding State Act for a minimum period of three years.
- Should have a good reputation in the local community.
- Must engage youth actively in effective activities for a period of at least three years.
- Should not have discriminated on grounds of sex, religion, caste, or creed.
- Organizations that have already received this award previously are not considered.
Application Process online.
Steps to Register:
- Visit the official website.
- Click on the Registration button.
- Select the application type (Individual or Organization).
For Individuals:
- Supply the following information:
- Name (as per Aadhaar/Valid ID Proof).
- Date of Birth.
- Mobile Number and Email ID.
- Aadhaar Number.
For Organizations:
- Provide the following details:
- Organization Type.
- Name of the Authorized Person (as per Aadhaar/Valid ID Proof).
- Short Description about the Organization (100 words).
- Mobile Number and Email ID.
- Aadhaar Number.
- Submit the application form.
How to Apply:
- Log on to the website using your registration credentials.
- Click on Nominate/Apply Now from the awards list by selecting the National Youth Award Scheme.
- Fill up the online application form, ensuring all mandatory fields are completed.
- Attach the required documents and click Submit.
Documents Needed
- Proof of Date of Birth: Aadhaar or Birth Certificate.
- Supporting Documents: Evidence of the outstanding work done by the applicant.
- Recommendation Letter: From the relevant authority.
Selection Process
Screening Committee:
- Chaired by the Joint Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs.
- Screens applications and shortlists nominees (three times the number of awards available).
Central Selection Committee:
- Headed by the Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs.
- Scrutinizes recommendations and finalizes the awardees.
- May consider additional cases based on merit.
Award Ceremony:
- Awards are distributed at a special ceremony, with the date announced annually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the National Youth Award?
It is an honor bestowed on individuals and voluntary organizations for outstanding contributions to social service and national development. - Who gives the National Youth Award?
The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Government of India. - Who is eligible?
Applicants aged 15 to 29 years, Indian citizens, and those who have done identifiable and extraordinary social work. - Can an organization apply for this award?
Yes, voluntary youth organizations active for at least three years and engaged in significant work can submit an application. - Is there a monetary award?
- Individuals: ₹1,00,000.
- Organizations: ₹3,00,000.
- How can one apply for the award?
Applications can be submitted online via the official website by registering and filling out the application form. - What benefits are provided to awardees?
Awardees receive a medal, certificate, and a cash prize.