New Delhi: The Indian government has decided to institute an award for those who contribute to the unity and integrity of India. The Sardar Patel National Unity Award will be the highest civilian award of the country and is a long overdue tribute to the ‘Iron Man’ of India who had tirelessly and fearlessly worked to unite India into one nation.
The Home Ministry has issued a notification to this effect on 20 September.
A press release by the government said, “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.”
It added, “The 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.”
According to reports the first winner of the Sardar Patel National Unity Award will be announced by the government on 31 October on the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary.
The Prime Minister would constitute a award committee which includes the Cabinet Secretary, the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, the Secretary to the President and the Home Secretary. In addition, the Prime Minister will select three to four persons to the committee.
The Sardar Patel National Unity Award will have no monetary grant or cash reward. A medal and citation would be given to the winner by the President of India. A maximum of three persons could be selected for the award in a year.
Another feature of the award is that it would not be given posthumously except in very rare and deserving cases.
The press release also said, ”Any Indian national or institution or organisation 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 Government of India may also send nominations.”
“The applications would need to be filed online on the website specifically designed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. All citizens, without distinction of religion, race caste, gender, place of birth, age or occupation, would be eligible for the Award.”
