New Delhi, August 25 (HS): The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has invited online nominations for the prestigious National Youth Award (NYA) 2024, which honours exceptional contributions by individuals and organisations in the fields of national development and social service.

The awards—presented annually during the National Youth Festival—aim to motivate young achievers between 15 and 29 years of age, foster responsibility towards society, and recognise voluntary organisations committed to youth empowerment.

Award categories and prize details

The NYA is conferred in two categories:

Individual Category – Up to 20 awards, each comprising a medal, certificate and ₹1,00,000 in prize money.

Organisation Category – Up to five awards, each comprising a medal, certificate and ₹3,00,000 in prize money.

(The number of awards may be varied in deserving cases.)

Fields of recognition

Nominations are invited from both individuals and organisations that have demonstrated excellence in areas such as health, research and innovation, culture, human rights, art and literature, tourism, sports, traditional medicine, active citizenship, academic excellence, smart learning, and community service.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online only through the portal awards.gov.in. The Ministry has extended the last date for submission to September 30, 2025. Detailed eligibility criteria and guidelines are available on the portal.

The Ministry has urged aspiring young changemakers and credible youth organisations to apply, stressing that the NYA represents not just a recognition of past contributions but also a call to inspire fellow citizens to participate in nation-building.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar