National & Global Honors (2025-26): UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

The honors landscape of 2025-2026 reflects a shift towards consolidating fragmented sectoral awards into unified national platforms (like Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar) while simultaneously internationalizing Indian merit through literary and conservation recognitions. This period balances the traditional hierarchy of civilian/military honors with emerging priorities like water conservation (Jal Shakti), indigenous livestock (Gopal Ratna), and material science innovation.

Cross-Theme Insight

Together, these threads reveal a 'Governance through Recognition' strategy. By aligning award cycles with ministerial missions—such as the Rashtriya Gokul Mission for Gopal Ratna or the Sagar Samman for the maritime sector—the State uses these honors as performance-linked incentives rather than just ceremonial titles. This is evidenced by the simultaneous opening of nominations across Steel, Shipping, and Agriculture ministries in early 2026, marking a synchronized administrative calendar for 'New India' distinctions.

Textbook vs Reality Gap

While static resources like Laxmikanth (7th ed., p. 85) focus on the legal validity of awards under Article 18 (citing the Balaji Raghavan case 1995), the 2025 updates show a functional evolution. For instance, the traditional Bhatnagar Prize (IAS 2009, nid: 5110) has now been integrated into the broader 'Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar' framework. Similarly, the 'Ashoka Chakra' hierarchy mentioned in textbooks (NDA-II 2023, nid: 17096) is now being actively complemented by specific 'Home Minister's' medals like the 'Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak' (2025-11-01), creating a more granular recognition system for internal security.

How This Theme Is Evolving

The trajectory shows an 'Indianization' of global prestige (e.g., Banu Mushtaq's International Booker win and Sonali Ghosh's IUCN award) and a 'Rationalization' of domestic awards, where the President's role in conferring consolidated science and bravery awards has become more streamlined and publicized.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

UPSC frequently tests the legal status and history of national awards. IAS 2021 (nid: 5997) tested the constitutional validity of Padma awards as 'titles' and their suspension history. Recent exams like NDA-II 2023 (nid: 17096) and CDS-I 2024 (nid: 13145) focus on the institution dates and monetary nature (or lack thereof) of Bharat Ratna and Gallantry awards.

Probable Prelims Angles

• Distinction between Booker Prize (English original) vs International Booker Prize (Translated work).
• Categories of Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Vigyan Ratna, Shri, Yuva, and Team.
• Nodal Ministries for Sagar Samman (Ports) and Gopal Ratna (Animal Husbandry).
• The 'Kenton R. Miller Award' – specifically its focus on innovation in national park sustainability (Kaziranga connection).
• Param Vir Chakra vs Ashoka Chakra: Wartime vs Peacetime gallantry distinctions.

Mains Answer Framework

• National and international awards serve as more than ceremonial tokens; they act as barometers for a nation's priorities, ranging from scientific self-reliance to cultural soft power.
• Constitutional dimension: Balancing Article 18 (Abolition of Titles) with the recognition of merit (Balaji Raghavan case).. Administrative efficiency: Consolidation of diverse prizes into 'Rashtriya' platforms to reduce 'award-inflation'.. Geopolitical soft power: The significance of Indian authors (Booker) and conservationists (IUCN) winning global accolades in the context of 'Vishwa-Mitra' diplomacy.
• Recognition systems must continue to evolve from 'status-driven' to 'outcome-driven', ensuring they inspire societal progress in vital sectors like sustainability and basic sciences.

Essay Connections

• The Pursuit of Excellence: A State's Duty vs. an Individual's Ambition (Use Bharat Ratna and Nobel examples).
• Art and Literature as Tools of Peace (Connect Booker Prize and Indira Gandhi Peace Prize).

Preparation Strategy

Reading Approach

Start with Laxmikanth's Fundamental Rights to establish the legal framework of Article 18. Then, map the 'Current' sectoral awards (Water, Livestock, Steel) to their respective Ministries using the 2026 nomination cycle threads. Conclude by comparing international literary prizes (Booker) with national civilian honors.

Textbook Roadmap

• Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth (7th ed.) > Chapter 8: Fundamental Rights > Abolition of Titles > p. 85. Thread 1 (Presidential Awards). Understand the legal distinction between a 'title' and an 'award'.
• Geography of India, Majid Husain (9th ed.) > Chapter 7: Resources > 6. National Awards > p. 38. Thread 3 (Gopal Ratna). Section on Gopal Ratna and National Kamdhenu Awards for indigenous breeds.
• Indian Economy, Nitin Singhania (2nd ed.) > Chapter 11: Irrigation > Ministry of Jal Shakti > p. 369. Thread 3 (National Water Awards). The institutional shift of water-related schemes under one nodal ministry.

Revision Bullets

• Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2025: Awarded to Graca Machel; 2024 awarded to Michelle Bachelet.
• International Booker 2025: Won by Banu Mushtaq ('Heart Lamp'), translated by Deepa Bhasthi (1st Indian translator winner).
• Dadasaheb Phalke 2023: Awarded to Mohanlal (highest cinema award in India).
• Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: 4 categories – Vigyan Ratna, Shri, Yuva-SSB, and Team.
• Nobel Peace 2025: María Corina Machado (Venezuela).
• Gopal Ratna Awards: Highest honors in the livestock sector, under Rashtriya Gokul Mission.
• Sangita Kalanidhi: Conferred to R.K. Shriramkumar; instituted in 1942 by Madras Music Academy.

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (7 themes, 37 news items)

2025 Presidential Award Conferments

Focus: A collection of national awards (Padma, Gallantry, Science, etc.) presented or conferred by the President of India throughout the 2025 calendar year.

UPSC Value: Provides a comprehensive view of the previous year's state recognition across various sectors (military, science, arts, public service).

10 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-23 [Sports & Awards] — President of India confers Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar
  President Droupadi Murmu presented the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar – 2025 to distinguished scientists for excellence in scientific research and innovation.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: President confers Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar – 2025.

• 2025-10-27 [Sports & Awards] — Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Awards
  The government announced 24 individual scientists and one team as recipients of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) awards, which recognize scientific achievement across four categories: Vigyan Ratna, Vigyan Shri, Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar, and Vigyan team award. The awards aim to streamline recognition and elevate the prestige of scientific honors. Concerns have been raised regarding the transparency of the selection process.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar awards recognize scientific achievement.

  Key Facts:

  • Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) awards announced
  • 24 individual scientists and a team recognized
  • Recognizes excellence in research, innovation, and technology
  • Aligns with Viksit Bharat vision
  • 24 individual scientists and 1 team received the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) in 2025.
  • The RVP has four categories: Vigyan Ratna, Vigyan Shri, Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar award, and Vigyan team award.
  • The RVP does not carry a cash prize.
• 2025-08-17 [Awards & Honors] — Senior IPS Officer Awarded President's Medal for Gallantry
  Senior IPS officer Ajay Kumar Sahni, known for leading 52 encounters, has been awarded the President's Medal for Gallantry for the third time. Gallantry Awards are given to personnel displaying courage and bravery in the line of duty, announced twice a year on Republic Day and Independence Day.
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  UPSC Angle: Senior IPS officer awarded President's Medal for Gallantry.

  Key Facts:

  • Ajay Kumar Sahni
  • President's Medal for Gallantry
  • Republic Day
  • Independence Day
  • Param Vir Chakra (PVC)
  • Mahavir Chakra (MVC)
  • Vir Chakra
• 2025-08-16 [Defense & Security] — President Awards Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals for Operation Sindoor
  President Droupadi Murmu awarded seven Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals (SYSM) for the first time since the Kargil War, honouring top military leaders of Operation Sindoor on the eve of the 79th Independence Day (2025).
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  UPSC Angle: President awards Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals for Operation Sindoor.

  Key Facts:

  • Seven Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals (SYSM) awarded for Operation Sindoor.
  • First time SYSM awarded since the Kargil War.
• 2025-08-10 [Society & Culture] — 11th National Handloom Day Celebrated
  The Ministry of Textiles celebrated the 11th National Handloom Day (NHD) on August 7, 2025, with the theme 'Weaving Innovation into Tradition'. The President of India presented 5 Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards for 2024 at Bharat Mandapam. National Handloom Day, established on August 7, 2015, commemorates the Swadeshi Movement and promotes indigenous handloom weaving.
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  UPSC Angle: 11th National Handloom Day theme: 'Weaving Innovation into Tradition'.

  Key Facts:

  • 11th National Handloom Day (NHD) celebrated on August 7, 2025
  • Theme: 'Weaving Innovation into Tradition'
  • President presented 5 Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards for 2024
  • NHD established on August 7, 2015, marks the Swadeshi Movement
• 2025-07-16 [Sports & Awards] — President Murmu Awards Kalinga Ratna Award to Dharmendra Pradhan
  President Droupadi Murmu awarded Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan with the Kalinga Ratna Award-2024 in Cuttack, Odisha, during a ceremony on July 16, 2025. The event commemorated the 600th birth anniversary of Adikabi Sarala Das and celebrated Odia literature and linguistic unity in India's cultural identity.
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  UPSC Angle: President Murmu awards Kalinga Ratna Award to Dharmendra Pradhan.

  Key Facts:

  • President Droupadi Murmu awarded Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan with the Kalinga Ratna Award-2024.
  • Award ceremony held in Cuttack, Odisha on July 16, 2025.
  • The event marked the 600th birth anniversary of Adikabi Sarala Das.
  • Organized by Sarala Sahitya Sansad.
  • Celebrated the legacy of Odia literature and the importance of linguistic unity in India's cultural identity.
• 2025-05-30 [Society & Culture] — President Confers National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025
  The President of India conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 to 15 nurses at Rashtrapati Bhavan. These nurses were honored for their exemplary service in strengthening public health delivery and their commitment to promoting community welfare.
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  UPSC Angle: President confers National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 to 15 nurses.

  Key Facts:

  • National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025
  • 15 awardees
  • Rashtrapati Bhavan
  • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• 2025-05-29 [Sports & Awards] — President Awards Padma Awards for 2025
  President Droupadi Murmu awarded 139 Padma Awards for 2025 at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The awards included 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri Awards. The list included posthumous awardees, foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI, and women.
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  UPSC Angle: President awards 139 Padma Awards for 2025.

  Key Facts:

  • 139 Padma Awards
  • 7 Padma Vibhushan
  • 19 Padma Bhushan
  • 113 Padma Shri Awards
  • 13 posthumous awardees
  • 10 foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI
  • 23 women
• 2025-05-23 [Defense & Security] — President Murmu awards gallantry awards
  President Droupadi Murmu conferred Kirti Chakras and Shaurya Chakras to the personnel of the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces and State/Union Territory Police during Phase-I of the Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan. These awards are given to personnel displaying courage, bravery, and disregard for personal safety in the line of duty during operations like counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, anti-piracy, and fire-fighting.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: President Murmu awarded gallantry awards to armed forces personnel.

  Key Facts:

  • Kirti Chakra
  • Shaurya Chakra
  • Armed Forces
  • Central Armed Police Forces
  • State/Union Territory Police
  • Rashtrapati Bhawan
  • President Droupadi Murmu
  • Six Kirti Chakras
  • Army
  • J&K Police
  • Rashtrapati Bhavan
  • May 23, 2025
• 2025-05-17 [Sports & Awards] — 58th Jnanpith Award
  President of India presented the 58th Jnanpith Award to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya (Sanskrit) in New Delhi. Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar also received the award but could not attend. The prize carries a cash award of Rs 21 lakh, a citation, and a bronze replica of Vagdevi (Saraswati), the goddess of learning.
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  UPSC Angle: 58th Jnanpith Award presented to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya (Sanskrit) and Gulzar (Urdu).

  Key Facts:

  • 58th Jnanpith Award recipients: Jagadguru Rambhadracharya (Sanskrit) and Gulzar (Urdu)
  • Cash prize: ₹21 lakh
  • Award includes a citation and a bronze replica of Vagdevi (Saraswati)
  • Award was instituted in 1961, and the first award was given in 1965.

Distinctions and Honours (2025-2026)

Focus: Updates regarding the conferment, history, and commemoration of prestigious civilian, military, and sectoral awards.

UPSC Value: Consolidates information on major awards (Sangita Kalanidhi, Dadasaheb Phalke, Param Vir Chakra) and their recipients across diverse fields.

8 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-02 [Society & Culture] — Meera Syal Awarded Damehood
  British Indian comedian and actress Meera Syal was awarded Damehood as part of King Charles III's New Year Honours List for 2026.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Recipient: Meera Syal
  • Honour: Damehood
  • Honour Part of: King Charles III's New Year Honours List for 2026
• 2026-01-02 [Society & Culture] — Sangita Kalanidhi Award Conferred
  Violinist R.K. Shriramkumar was conferred with the Sangita Kalanidhi award. Instituted in 1942 by the Madras Music Academy, the award is considered the highest recognition for excellence in Carnatic music. The award comprises a gold medal and a citation.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Award: Sangita Kalanidhi
  • Recipient: R.K. Shriramkumar
  • Instituted: 1942
  • By: Madras Music Academy
  • Recognition for: Excellence in Carnatic music
  • Comprises: Gold medal and citation
• 2025-12-18 [Society & Culture] — Portraits of Param Vir Chakra Awardees Displayed at Rashtrapati Bhavan
  Portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees are now on display at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replacing the previously displayed portraits of 96 British Aide-de-Camps (ADCs). The Param Vir Chakra is India's highest military decoration.
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  UPSC Angle: Portraits of Param Vir Chakra awardees displayed at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

  Key Facts:

  • Portraits: 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees
  • Location: Rashtrapati Bhavan
  • Replaced: Portraits of 96 British Aide-de-Camps (ADCs)
  • Param Vir Chakra: India's highest military decoration
• 2025-10-12 [Environment & Ecology] — Kaziranga Director receives IUCN award
  Sonali Ghosh, Director of Kaziranga National Park, received the Kenton R. Miller Award for innovation in national park sustainability, marking her as the first Indian honoree. The award, presented by the WCPA, recognizes impactful conservation efforts.
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  UPSC Angle: Kaziranga Director receives IUCN's Kenton R. Miller Award.

  Key Facts:

  • Award: Kenton R. Miller Award
  • Recipient: Sonali Ghosh, Director of Kaziranga National Park
  • Presented by: WCPA
• 2025-09-21 [Sports & Awards] — Mohanlal to receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award
  The Government of India announced that Shri Mohanlal will be conferred with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2023. It is the highest award in the field of cinema in India.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Shri Mohanlal
  • Dadasaheb Phalke Award
  • Year 2023
  • Highest award in the field of cinema in India
  • Instituted in 1969
• 2025-04-17 [Sports & Awards] — MacGregor Memorial Medal
  The MacGregor Memorial Medal was instituted on July 3, 1888, to commemorate Maj. Gen. Sir Charles Metcalfe MacGregor, the founder of the United Service Institution of India (USI). Initially, it was awarded for military reconnaissance and journeys of exploration. After independence, it was decided to award this medal for adventure activities and is open to all ranks of the Indian Armed Forces, Territorial Army, and Assam Rifles.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Instituted: July 3, 1888
  • Commemorates: Maj. Gen. Sir Charles Metcalfe MacGregor
  • Open to all ranks, serving and retired, of the Indian Armed Forces, Territorial Army, and Assam Rifles
• 2025-04-05 [Sports & Awards] — Bharat Ratna Sammaan 2025 awarded to Dr. Thejo Kumari Amudala
  Dr. Thejo Kumari Amudala received the Bharat Ratna Sammaan 2025 for her transformative work in healthcare, IT, and education. The award was presented by BJP minister, Chandan Kumar Chaudhary. In addition to the Bharat Ratna Samman 2025, she also received the Impact Beyond Measure CSR 2025 award from the Goa government’s Social Welfare Department.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Bharat Ratna Sammaan 2025
  • Dr. Thejo Kumari Amudala
  • Chandan Kumar Chaudhary (BJP minister)
  • Impact Beyond Measure CSR 2025
  • Goa government’s Social Welfare Department
• 2025-03-24 [Sports & Awards] — Sangita Kalanidhi Award
  The Sangita Kalanidhi Award was in the news. The 2025 Sangita Kalanidhi Award has been conferred upon violinist R.K. Shriramkumar.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: R.K. Shriramkumar conferred with the 2025 Sangita Kalanidhi Award.

  Key Facts:

  • The recipient of Sangita Kalanidhi award is R.K. Shriramkumar

International Honors for Peace, Human Rights, and Social Advocacy (2024-2025)

Focus: Prestigious international awards conferred to individuals for their significant contributions to global peace, democratic transitions, and social justice advocacy.

UPSC Value: This grouping is essential for understanding the role of international institutions and foundations in recognizing and legitimizing global humanitarian and civil rights movements.

5 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-23 [Sports & Awards] — Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2025 Awarded to Graca Machel
  Mozambican rights activist and humanitarian Graca Machel has been selected for the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2025. The prize, consisting of 25 lakh rupees and a citation, is awarded annually by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust to a person or organization for creative efforts towards promoting international peace, disarmament, racial equality, and goodwill among nations.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2025 awarded to Graca Machel.

  Key Facts:

  • Indira Gandhi Peace Prize 2025 awarded to Graca Machel
  • Mozambican rights activist and humanitarian
  • Prize consists of ₹25 lakh and citation
  • Awarded by Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust
  • Recognizes efforts towards peace, disarmament, and equality
• 2025-11-20 [Sports & Awards] — Michelle Bachelet Awarded Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2024
  Former Chile President Michelle Bachelet was awarded the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2024. The prize, established in 1986, consists of ₹25 lakh and a citation.
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  UPSC Angle: Michelle Bachelet awarded Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development.

  Key Facts:

  • The prize was instituted in 1986.
  • It consists of a monetary award of ₹25 lakh along with a citation.
• 2025-10-11 [Sports & Awards] — Nobel Peace Prize 2025
  The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 has been awarded to María Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader, for her decades-long struggle to restore democracy, civil liberties, and peaceful political transition in Venezuela under an authoritarian regime. She won the prize for her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Nobel Peace Prize 2025 awarded to María Corina Machado.

  Key Facts:

  • Awardee: María Corina Machado
  • Country: Venezuela
  • Reason: Promoting democratic rights and peaceful transition from dictatorship
  • Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelan opposition leader, awarded 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
  • Awarded for promoting peaceful, democratic transition.
  • The नॉर्विजियन नोबेल कमिटी (Norwegian Nobel Committee) decides who receives the Nobel Peace Prize.
• 2025-07-30 [Sports & Awards] — UN Nelson Mandela Prize 2025
  Dr. Kennedy Odede, Founder and CEO of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) has been awarded the 2025 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize by the United Nations.
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  UPSC Angle: Dr. Kennedy Odede wins UN Nelson Mandela Prize 2025.

  Key Facts:

  • Dr. Kennedy Odede, Founder and CEO of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) awarded the 2025 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize
• 2025-07-17 [Sports & Awards] — Varsha Deshpande Wins UN Population Award
  Indian activist Varsha Deshpande, founder of the Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal, has been awarded the 2025 UN Population Award in the individual category for her work on gender-based issues and social justice. With over 35 years of activism, Deshpande has focused on fighting gender-based violence and discrimination, and promoting women's rights, especially among Dalit and marginalized communities.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Varsha Deshpande wins UN Population Award.

  Key Facts:

  • Varsha Deshpande: 2025 UN Population Award winner
  • Founder: Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal
  • Focus: Gender-based violence, discrimination, and women's rights
  • Years of activism: Over 35 years

Early 2026 National Award Nomination Cycles

Focus: Multiple government ministries opening nomination windows for national awards between January and February 2026.

UPSC Value: Useful for tracking the administrative calendar of major national honors (Gallantry, Science, Statistics) and their respective nodal ministries.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-02 [Sports & Awards] — National Awards Nominations Open
  Nominations are open for several national awards, including the Bharat Steel Awards 2026, Sagar Samman Award 2026, and Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Puraskar 2026. These awards recognize excellence and dedication in various fields.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Bharat Steel Awards 2026: Open from 09/01/2026 to 14/02/2026
  • Sagar Samman Award 2026: Open from 01/01/2026 to 28/02/2026
  • Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Puraskar 2026: Open from 01/01/2026 to 15/03/2026
  • Gallantry Medal - PMG/GM 2026: Open from 01/01/2026 to 31/12/2026
  • Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2027: Open from 01/10/2025 to 30/09/2026
• 2026-01-16 [Sports & Awards] — Sukhatme National Award in Statistics Applications Open
  The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has called for applications for the Sukhatme National Award in Statistics 2026. Indian statisticians aged 45 and above can apply online, with the deadline for applications being January 31, 2026.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Sukhatme National Award in Statistics 2026 applications open
  • Awarded by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
  • Open to Indian statisticians aged 45+
  • Application deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Recognizes contributions to official statistics and research
• 2026-01-10 [Sports & Awards] — Ongoing Award Nominations
  Nominations are open for several national awards including Bharat Steel Awards 2026 (Ministry of Steel), Sagar Samman Award 2026 (Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways), Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Puraskar 2026 (Department of Agricultural Research and Education), and Gallantry Medal - PMG/GM 2026 (Ministry of Home Affairs). Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2027 (National Disaster Management Authority) nominations are also open.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Nominations open for Bharat Steel Awards, Sagar Samman Award, etc.

  Key Facts:

  • Bharat Steel Awards 2026 - Ministry of Steel (Open From :09/01/2026 To 14/02/2026)
  • Sagar Samman Award 2026 - Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (Open From :01/01/2026 To 28/02/2026)
  • Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Puraskar 2026 - Department of Agricultural Research and Education (Open From :01/01/2026 To 15/03/2026)
  • Gallantry Medal - PMG/GM 2026 - Ministry of Home Affairs (Open From :01/01/2026 To 31/12/2026)
  • Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2027 - National Disaster Management Authority (Open From :01/10/2025 To 30/09/2026)
• 2026-01-04 [Sports & Awards] — Gallantry Medal - PMG/GM 2026 Nominations Open
  The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced that nominations for the Gallantry Medal - PMG/GM 2026 are open from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Nominations for Gallantry Medal - PMG/GM 2026 are open.
  • Ministry of Home Affairs is the awarding body.
  • Nominations are open from 2026-01-01 to 2026-12-31.

Conferment of Prestigious Global and National Awards in 2025

Focus: Items documenting the announcement and awarding of high-level prizes in chemistry, economics, agriculture, and material science within the year 2025.

UPSC Value: Crucial for the 'Awards and Honors' segment of the UPSC syllabus, highlighting global and national recognition of excellence in scientific and economic research.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-13 [Sports & Awards] — Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025
  Dr. Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan has been awarded the Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025. He is an associate professor of material engineering at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Dr. Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan wins Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award.

  Key Facts:

  • Awarded to Dr. Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan
  • He is an associate professor of material engineering at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
• 2025-10-14 [Economy] — Economics Nobel Prize 2025 Awarded
  The 2025 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences was awarded to Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion, and Peter Howitt for their contributions in explaining how innovation drives sustained economic growth. The award, formally known as the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, honors exceptional research in economics that advances understanding of growth, markets, and human welfare.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: 2025 Economics Nobel: Mokyr, Aghion, Howitt on innovation & growth.

  Key Facts:

  • Awarded to Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion, and Peter Howitt.
  • Recognized for explaining how innovation drives sustained economic growth.
  • Formally known as the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel.
• 2025-10-09 [Science & Technology] — Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 Awarded
  The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar Yaghi for creating Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs). MOFs are a revolutionary class of porous materials that can trap, store, and release molecules with high precision. MOFs are crystalline structures in which metal ions serve as nodes and organic molecules as connectors.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 awarded for Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs).

  Key Facts:

  • 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar Yaghi
  • Awarded for the creation of Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs)
  • MOFs are porous materials that can trap, store, and release molecules
  • MOFs are crystalline structures in which metal ions serve as nodes and organic molecules as connectors
• 2025-05-16 [Sports & Awards] — World Food Prize 2025
  The 2025 World Food Prize was awarded to a Brazilian microbiologist for her contributions to environmentally friendly agriculture.
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  UPSC Angle: World Food Prize 2025 awarded for contributions to environmentally friendly agriculture.

  Key Facts:

  • Awardee: Brazilian microbiologist
  • Reason: Contributions to environmentally friendly agriculture

Major Literary Recognitions of 2025

Focus: Prestigious international and regional awards conferred in 2025 specifically for excellence in literature and translation.

UPSC Value: Understanding significant literary awards and their recipients is essential for the 'Current Events' and 'Art & Culture' segments of the UPSC examination.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-27 [Sports & Awards] — LNF Literary Award 2025 to Velamala Simmanna
  The Lok Nayak Foundation (LNF) Literary Award 2025 will be presented to Telugu writer and scholar Velamala Simmanna. The award recognizes significant contributions to the Telugu language, literature, and culture and is given annually by the Lok Nayak Foundation.
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  UPSC Angle: LNF Literary Award 2025 to Telugu writer Velamala Simmanna.

  Key Facts:

  • Lok Nayak Foundation (LNF) Literary Award 2025
  • Velamala Simmanna
  • Telugu
  • Lok Nayak Foundation
• 2025-11-14 [Sports & Awards] — David Szalay wins 2025 Booker Prize
  Author David Szalay has won the 2025 Booker Prize for his fictional novel Flesh. The Booker Prize, established in 1969, is one of the world's most prestigious literary awards, honouring the best original full-length novel written in English and published in the UK or Ireland.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • David Szalay won the 2025 Booker Prize for his novel Flesh
  • Booker Prize established in 1969
  • Award is for the best original full-length novel written in English and published in the UK or Ireland
• 2025-05-22 [Sports & Awards] — International Booker Prize 2025 Awarded to Kannada Author
  Banu Mushtaq, a Kannada author and activist, has won the International Booker Prize 2025 for her short story collection 'Heart Lamp,' translated into English by Deepa Bhasthi. Deepa Bhasthi is the first Indian translator to win the prize, while Banu Mushtaq is the second Indian to win it, after Geetanjali Shree. The prize, established in 2005, honors the best translated work of fiction into English from any language, awarding £50,000 shared between the author and translator.
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  UPSC Angle: Banu Mushtaq won the International Booker Prize 2025 for 'Heart Lamp'.

  Key Facts:

  • Winner: Banu Mushtaq
  • Book: Heart Lamp
  • Translator: Deepa Bhasthi
  • Prize: International Booker Prize 2025
  • Prize amount: £50,000
  • First Indian Translator to win: Deepa Bhasthi
  • Second Indian to win: Banu Mushtaq
  • International Booker Prize 2025 winner: Heart Lamp by Bhanu Mushtak
  • Translated from Kannada to English by Deepa Bhasthi
  • Deepa Bhasthi is the first Indian translator to win the prize

November 2025 National Award Declarations

Focus: A cluster of announcements regarding winners of various national awards (Water, Livestock, Security) occurring specifically in November 2025.

UPSC Value: Highlights the specific timeline for award conferment across different sectors (Jal Shakti, Animal Husbandry, Home Affairs) in the preceding year.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-18 [Schemes & Programs] — National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025 Announced
  The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) has announced the National Gopal Ratna Awards for 2025. These are the country's highest honors in the livestock and dairy sector, launched under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission in 2021 to encourage excellence among milk-producing farmers, dairy cooperatives, and Artificial Insemination Technicians.
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  UPSC Angle: National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025 announced for livestock sector.

  Key Facts:

  • The awards were launched under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission in 2021.
  • The awards aim to encourage excellence among milk-producing farmers, dairy cooperatives, Milk Producer Companies (MPCs), Dairy Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Artificial Insemination Technicians (AITs).
• 2025-11-13 [Schemes & Programs] — 6th National Water Awards Announced
  The 6th National Water Awards (NWA) 2024 were announced by Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Paatil, at Shram Shakti Bhawan, New Delhi. The awards are instituted by the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti to recognise exceptional contributions in water conservation, management, and sustainable practices.
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  UPSC Angle: 6th National Water Awards 2024 announced by Jal Shakti Ministry.

  Key Facts:

  • Announced by: Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Paatil
  • Instituted by: Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti
• 2025-11-01 [Sports & Awards] — Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak Awarded for 2025
  The 'Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak' has been awarded for the year 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak awarded for 2025.

  Key Facts:

  • Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak
  • Awarded for the year 2025