Objective In order to encourage the voluntary sector, the Government of India in 1979 started a scheme of giving National Awards to deserving institutions and individuals for their outstanding performance in the field of child welfare. The Scheme was started with a view to give recognition to such voluntary action. Each year five institutions and three individuals are honoured with this prestigious Award. The National Award for Child Welfare includes the following: Nature of Awards A cash prize Rs. 3 lakh for each institution- Rs. 1 lakh for each individual and A certificate for each institution and individual. Target Group and categories Children between the age of 4 to 15 years who have shown an exceptional in any field including academics, arts, culture and sports etc. are eligible for this award. One Gold Medal and 35 silver Medals (one for each State/UT) are to be given annually Important Dates The last date for submission of nominations for each year is 30th April of each year. Date of achievement announcement of the award: November 14 Criteria for Selection Awards to deserving institutions and individuals for their outstanding performance in the field of child welfare Selection Process A National Selection Committee out of the cases recommended by various bodies will make the selection The National Selection Committee will consist of the following persons: Minister of State I/C in the M/O of Women& Child Development Chairperson Secretary, WCD Member Secretary or his nominee in the M/o Social Justice & Empowerment Member Secretary or his nominee in the Dept. of Education Member Secretary or his nominee in the Dept. of Culture Member Secretary of his nominee in the M/O Member Jt. Secretary (CW), M/O WCD Member Dy. Secretary (CW), M/O WCD Member Process of Execution The applications for the Awards are received through State Governments. The last date for receiving nominations is 30th April of each year. Source: For complete information on National Award for Child Welfare, Click here