Why in news?
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports opened nominations for the 2025 award. Online applications remain open from 21 July to 20 August 2026. Applicants must use the National Awards Portal.
Background
India instituted its National Adventure Awards in 1993 and has conferred them annually since 1994.
The Government later named them after Tenzing Norgay, who summited Everest with Edmund Hillary on 29 May 1953.
They became the first climbers confirmed to reach the summit and return safely.
The award is India’s highest national honour for achievements in adventure activities.
Date caution: The current nomination concerns the 2025 award, although applications opened during 2026.
What does the award seek to promote?
Adventure activities demand physical endurance, preparation, discipline and sound judgement under pressure.
They also require teamwork because one person’s decision can affect an entire group.
The award therefore recognises achievement while encouraging wider youth participation.
Its stated aims include endurance, risk management, teamwork and effective responses during difficult situations.
Four award categories
| Category | What it broadly covers |
|---|---|
| Land Adventure | Activities such as mountaineering, trekking, skiing and difficult land expeditions. |
| Water or Sea Adventure | Activities such as sailing, open-water journeys and challenging river expeditions. |
| Air Adventure | Activities such as skydiving, hang-gliding and other demanding air expeditions. |
| Lifetime Achievement | Long and exceptional service to adventure activities and their promotion. |
The first three categories generally consider achievements from the preceding three calendar years.
The lifetime category considers sustained excellence and long-term contribution.
How many people may receive it?
Normally, the Government gives no more than one award in each category.
The Ministry may increase this number after recording reasons and obtaining the Union Sports Minister’s approval.
Who administers the award?
The Department of Youth Affairs manages the award under the concerned Union Ministry.
The National Awards Portal belongs to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Serving defence personnel require official recommendations, while other eligible Indians may apply through the national portal.
What does each recipient receive?
- Each recipient receives a bronze statuette, certificate, blazer with silken tie, or a saree.
- The monetary component is ₹15 lakh, while its official status matches the Arjuna Awards.
The Government presents it with the National Sports Awards.
Important distinction: Equal status does not make this an Arjuna Award. It remains a separate national honour for adventure.
Conclusion
The award connects exceptional achievements with youth development, while its four categories cover land, water, air and lifetime service.
Remember its ₹15 lakh prize and administration by the Department of Youth Affairs.