National Florence Nightingale Awards 2026

The National Florence Nightingale Awards for 2026 were conferred on 15 nursing professionals at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 12 May 2026. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards on International Nurses Day, and each recipient received a Certificate of Merit, a medal, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.

National Florence Nightingale Awards

The National Florence Nightingale Awards are instituted by the Union Health Ministry for nursing professionals in India. The awards recognise service by Auxiliary Nurse Midwives, registered nurses, nursing officers, and nursing educators.

Notable 2026 Awardees

Aysha Beebi K from Lakshadweep received the award for a critical midnight delivery on a remote island in 2026. Kulwinder Parhi, an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife from Ladakh, received recognition for nearly three decades of service in high-altitude regions.

Other Recognised Contributions

Dr. Sharwan Kumar Dhaka from Delhi was recognised for Covid-19 vaccination outreach and public health services. Major General Lissamma P.V. from Army Medical Services was recognised for contributions to military healthcare.

Important Facts for Exams

• International Nurses Day is observed on 12 May every year.
• Florence Nightingale was a 19th-century British nurse associated with modern nursing.
• The National Florence Nightingale Awards are among the highest honours for nursing professionals in India.
• Ladakh is a high-altitude Union Territory with difficult weather and terrain conditions.

Exam-Relevant Nursing Categories

The award framework includes ANMs, registered nurses, nursing officers, and nursing educators. The 2026 ceremony was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.