Prime Minister’s Award for Yoga – 2026

Call for Nominations

The Prime Minister’s Award for Yoga was instituted by the Government of India to recognize outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of yoga at national and international levels. The award reflects India’s commitment to preserving and promoting yoga as a valuable heritage for the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of humanity.

The award was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of the first International Day of Yoga in 2015, and is presented annually to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication in the field of yoga.

Purpose of the Award

The award seeks to honour individuals and institutions that have made significant and sustained contributions to the promotion of yoga, both within India and internationally. It recognizes efforts that have helped spread awareness of yoga, advanced its teaching and practice, and promoted its benefits for health, harmony and holistic well-being.

Categories of the Award

The Prime Minister’s Award for Yoga is presented in the following categories:

1. National Individual

2. National Organization

3. International Individual

4. International Organization

Each award carries:

• Trophy

• Certificate

• Cash prize of INR 25 lakh

Eligibility

The award is open to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated remarkable and sustained contributions in the field of yoga.

Eligible contributions may include:

• Promotion of yoga education and training

• Research and innovation in yoga practice and philosophy

• Community outreach and public health initiatives using yoga

• International promotion of yoga and its holistic benefits

• Development of yoga institutions and teaching programmes

The nominee’s work should reflect a deep commitment to the authentic principles and values of yoga.

Nomination Process

Nominations for the Prime Minister’s Award for Yoga 2026 may be submitted by:

• Government bodies

• Recognized yoga institutions

• Academic organizations

• Previous award recipients

• Eminent individuals in the field of yoga

Self-nominations are also permitted.

Selection Process

The awardees are selected through a two-stage evaluation process involving expert committees constituted by the Government of India. The final decision is taken by a high-level jury based on the nominee’s contribution, impact, and commitment to promoting yoga.

Significance

Yoga represents India’s ancient wisdom and its universal message of harmony between mind, body and nature. Through the Prime Minister’s Award for Yoga, the Government of India seeks to encourage global efforts that contribute to the spread of yoga as a tool for health, peace and sustainable living.

How to Apply

Nominations may be submitted through the official portal of the Government of India.

For further information and nomination details, please visit: https://awards.gov.in/Home/AwardLibrary

International Day of Yoga

The award is presented annually in connection with the International Day of Yoga (21 June), celebrated worldwide following the adoption of a United Nations resolution in 2014.