National Florence Nightingale Awards 2026

President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2026 to distinguished nursing personnel at a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 12, observed as International Nurses Day.

The awards recognise the outstanding contribution of nursing professionals to healthcare services across India.

About the National Florence Nightingale Awards

Instituted in 1973 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Florence Nightingale Awards honour meritorious services rendered by nursing professionals in the country.

The awards are presented to: Registered Nurses, midwives, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), and  Lady Health Visitors (LHVs) serving under Central and State Governments, Union Territories, and Voluntary organisations. 

Components of the Award

Each award includes a Certificate of Merit, a medal, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.

The honour recognises exceptional dedication and service in strengthening India’s healthcare system.

International Nurses Day

International Nurses Day is celebrated every year on May 12 to mark the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale.

International Nurses Day acknowledges the vital role played by nurses in healthcare delivery and public health systems worldwide.

Florence Nightingale: The Lady with the Lamp

Florence Nightingale was born in 1820 in Florence, the Italian city after which she was named.

She gained worldwide recognition during the Crimean War for her dedicated service to wounded soldiers.

Nightingale became popularly known as “The Lady with the Lamp” because she would walk through hospital wards at night carrying a lamp to care for injured soldiers.