National Unity Award – The government of India has instituted the highest civilian Guard in the field of contribution to the unity and integrity of India, in the name of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. A notification to institute the Sardar Patel National Unity Award was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 20th September 2019. The Award seeks to recognize notable and inspiring contributions to promote the cause of national unity and integrity and to reinforce the value of a strong and united India. The award will be announced on the occasion of National Unity Day, i.e. the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel on 31st October.
National Unity Award
The National Unity Award shall be conferred by the President by a Sanad under his hand and seal and presented by him in a presentation ceremony along with the Padma award presentation ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhawan. An Award Committee includes the Cabinet Secretary, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Secretary to the President, and Home Secretary as Members, and three-four eminent persons selected by the Prime Minister.
The Award would consist of a medal and a citation. No monetary grant or cash award would be attached to this Award. Not more than three Awards would be given in a year. It would not be conferred posthumously except in very rare and highly deserving cases.
The nominations would be invited every year. The applications would need to be filed online on the website www. nationalunityawards.mha.gov.in specifically designed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. All citizens, without distinction of religion, race caste, gender, place of birth, age or occupation, and any institution/organization would be eligible for the Award.
Any Indian national or institution or organization based in India would be able to nominate an individual for consideration for this Award. Individuals may also nominate themselves. State Governments, UT Administrations, and Ministries of the Government of India may also send nominations.