OVERVIEW
On 12 May 2026, President Droupadi Murmu gave the National Florence Nightingale Awards to 15 nursing professionals. The ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. This date is also celebrated as International Nurses Day. Each award winner received a Certificate of Merit, a medal, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. The awards are given by the Union Health Ministry. They honour nurses, midwives, nursing officers, and nursing teachers for their selfless service.
WHAT ARE THE NATIONAL FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE AWARDS?
These awards are among the highest honours for nursing professionals in India. The Union Health Ministry started them. The awards recognise the hard work of:
The 2026 ceremony was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The President herself presented the awards.
NOTABLE AWARDEES OF 2026
Aysha Beebi K from Lakshadweep
She received the award for a brave act. In 2026, she helped deliver a baby at midnight on a very remote island. There was no doctor or hospital nearby. She acted fast and saved both mother and child.
Kulwinder Parhi from Ladakh
She is an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife. She has served for nearly three decades in high-altitude regions. Ladakh has freezing temperatures and difficult terrain. Her long service there is truly inspiring.
OTHER RECOGNISED CONTRIBUTIONS
Dr. Sharwan Kumar Dhaka from Delhi
He was honoured for his work during the Covid-19 pandemic. He led vaccination drives in remote areas and provided public health services.
Major General Lissamma P.V. from Army Medical Services
She received recognition for her contributions to military healthcare. She has taken care of soldiers and their families for many years.
WHY 12 MAY?
International Nurses Day is observed on 12 May every year. This date is the birthday of Florence Nightingale . She was a British nurse who lived in the 19th century. She is called the founder of modern nursing. She made nursing a respected profession.
FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)
Q1: Who presented the National Florence Nightingale Awards in 2026?
A: President Droupadi Murmu.
Q2: How many nursing professionals received the award in 2026?
A: 15.
Q3: What does each award winner receive?
A: A Certificate of Merit, a medal, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.
Q4: Which ministry institutes these awards?
A: The Union Health Ministry.
Q5: Why is 12 May celebrated as International Nurses Day?
A: Because it is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
EXAM-FOCUSED POINTS