New Delhi – The Council of Architecture (CoA) has issued an invitation to all registered architects across India to submit recommendations for the prestigious Padma Awards 2026, as announced in a circular dated July 21, 2025. The call follows a request from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, dated July 14, 2025, seeking nominations of distinguished architects for these esteemed civilian honors.
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The Padma Awards, comprising Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are among India’s highest civilian recognitions. Instituted in 1954, these awards are conferred annually on Republic Day to honor exceptional achievements across various fields, including architecture, art, literature, education, sports, medicine, social work, science, engineering, public affairs, civil service, trade, and industry. The awards celebrate distinguished service without regard to race, occupation, position, or gender.
Eligibility and Criteria for Architects
The CoA has outlined specific criteria for architects wishing to be considered for the Padma Awards 2026. Eligible candidates must have at least 25 years of experience in architectural practice or service and should highlight contributions in the following areas:
- Social Projects: Details of involvement in projects that have significantly benefited society.
- Education and Mentorship: Efforts to develop and educate the younger generation in the architecture profession.
- Awards and Recognition: Any national or international awards received for architectural services.
- Other Notable Contributions: Additional achievements that justify consideration for the award.
Architects are required to submit their resume, biodata, list of projects, and supporting documents by July 27, 2025, via email to registrar-coa@gov.in, with a copy to rkoberoi.coa@gmail.com.
Nomination Process
Nominations for the Padma Awards 2026 must be submitted through the online Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in) by July 31, 2026. The nomination should include a detailed citation (maximum 800 words) outlining the candidate’s exceptional achievements in their field. The portal also provides guidelines and the statutes governing the awards, accessible at https://padmawards.gov.in.
Also Read: Padma Shri Awardee Shri Chandrakant Balvantray Sompura: A Legacy of Temple Architecture
Key Considerations for Recommendations
The CoA emphasizes that nominees should demonstrate “excellence plus” in their lifetime achievements, with a strong record of impactful service. The council encourages nominations of talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, weaker sections of society, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and persons with disabilities. While the awards are typically not conferred posthumously, exceptions may be made for highly deserving candidates who passed away within one year preceding Republic Day 2026.
Additionally, candidates previously honored with a national or state award may be considered for a higher Padma Award category, provided at least five years have elapsed since their prior recognition. Government servants, including those in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), are ineligible, except for doctors and scientists.
About the Padma Awards
The Padma Awards recognize outstanding contributions across diverse disciplines. The Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, the Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order, and the Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. These awards serve as a testament to India’s commitment to honoring excellence and fostering inspiration across generations.
For further details, architects are encouraged to visit the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal or contact the Council of Architecture at India Habitat Centre, Core – 6A, 1st Floor, Lodhi Road, New Delhi – 110003, or via phone at +91-11-26181000.
Source: Official Circular from the Council of Architecture, Ref No. CA498/2025/Padma Awards, dated July 21, 2025.