Recognising India’s Health Guardians
National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025: In a heartwarming event at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 to 15 exceptional nursing professionals. These awards represent a national tribute to the selfless service and dedication shown by nurses across the country. Whether in bustling cities or remote islands, these individuals stand as the first and last hope for countless patients.
Who receives this honour?
Instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, this award honours Registered Nurses, Midwives, ANMs, and Lady Health Visitors who go above and beyond their call of duty. The recognition comes with a certificate, a ₹1,00,000 cash prize, and a medal—each symbolising national gratitude.
A diverse list of winners
This year’s awardees come from 15 different regions, showing the true diversity of India’s healthcare landscape. From Smt. Reba Rani Sarkar of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to Smt. Doli Biswas of West Bengal, the list includes professionals from both urban hubs and rural terrains.
2025 Awardees include:
- Smt. Alamelu Mangayarkarasi K – Tamil Nadu
- Dr. Banu M R – Karnataka
- Maj Gen Sheena P D – Delhi
- Smt. Valiveti Subhavathi – Andhra Pradesh
- Smt. Kijum Sora Karga – Arunachal Pradesh
Strengthening nursing through reforms
The Indian government is pushing strong policy changes to support the nursing sector. One major step is the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act, aimed at modernising education and improving training standards.
Additionally, the creation of 157 new nursing colleges, co-located with medical colleges, is set to enhance professional opportunities and ensure better healthcare delivery nationwide. This is a significant boost, especially in states with nurse shortages.
Remembering Florence Nightingale
Named after Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing, the awards uphold her values of care, strength, and discipline. Her legacy lives on through these brave professionals who continue to serve under tough conditions—often without proper facilities but always with unmatched resolve.
These awards remind us of the true backbone of Indian healthcare—nurses who serve with compassion, dignity, and resilience.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Topic | Details |
| First Florence Nightingale Award | Instituted in 1973 by Govt. of India |
| Founder of Modern Nursing | Florence Nightingale, served during Crimean War |
| Total Awardees in 2025 | 15 Nursing Professionals |
| Cash Prize | ₹1,00,000 |
| Associated Ministry | Ministry of Health and Family Welfare |
| National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act | Enacted to reform nursing education |
| No. of new nursing colleges | 157 colleges, aligned with medical colleges |
| Ceremony Venue | Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi |
| President of India | Smt. Droupadi Murmu |
| Health Minister Present | Shri J. P. Nadda |
| Notable Awardee | Maj Gen Sheena P D, Delhi |
| Related GK Fact | International Nurses Day is celebrated on 12 May each year |
