Government Invites Applications for National Teachers Awards 2026

New Delhi, June 25: The Ministry of Education has opened the application process for the National Teachers Awards 2026, inviting eligible school teachers from across the country to apply through the National Awards Portal. The initiative aims to recognize educators who have made exceptional contributions to improving the quality of school education and fostering the overall development of students.

Teachers serving in schools managed by the Central Government, State Governments, Union Territories, local bodies, as well as aided and private schools affiliated with recognized education boards, are eligible to apply in accordance with the prescribed guidelines.

The online application and nomination process began on June 15, 2026, and will remain open until July 10, 2026. Teachers are required to complete and submit their self-nominations between July 11 and July 13, 2026.

Following the submission phase, nominations will undergo scrutiny by district and state-level selection committees before being evaluated by an Independent National Jury. Shortlisted candidates will be informed at the end of July, with the jury conducting the final selection process during the first week of August.

The list of awardees is expected to be finalized after approval from the Union Education Minister between August 10 and August 20, 2026. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on September 5, 2026, coinciding with Teachers’ Day, with rehearsals planned for September 4.

Teachers interested in applying can access the detailed eligibility criteria, application guidelines, evaluation process, and schedule through the official National Awards Portal.