The Ministry of Women and Child Development announced on 27 April 2026 that the Government of India has invited nominations for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar through the National Awards Portal. The release described the award as a prestigious national-level honour conferred annually to recognise exceptional achievements of children across the country. It specified six fields for recognition: Bravery, Sports, Social Service, Science and Technology, Environment, and Arts and Culture. The notice is therefore not limited to classroom achievement; it includes public courage, social contribution, scientific talent, environmental work and cultural excellence. Eligibility is defined by age, citizenship and residence. Any child above 5 years and not exceeding 18 years as on 31 July 2026 is eligible if the child is an Indian citizen and resides in India. The same date is both the age cut-off and the last date for receipt of online applications. The ministry stated that nominations will be accepted only through the National Awards Portal. Any citizen may submit a nomination, and both self-nomination and recommendation will be considered. This gives families, schools, community members and institutions a formal route to bring deserving children to national attention. The release asked applicants to visit the portal for more details and made online submission the required mode. For governance, the announcement shows a single digital route with defined categories, eligibility cut-off and deadline. For child welfare, it frames recognition as a way to encourage achievement in areas that combine individual talent with public value.