The Kabir Puraskar Scheme is a national award instituted by the Government of India in 1990. The scheme was introduced to recognize and celebrate individuals who display acts of exceptional courage, humanity, and compassion while saving lives and property during communal riots, caste conflicts, or ethnic clashes. The award, named “Kabir Puraskar,” aims to promote harmony and understanding between diverse groups in India.
Award Structure and Eligibility
The award is conferred in three grades, each with a distinct cash prize:
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Grade I: Rs. 2,00,000 (Rupees two lakh)
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Grade II: Rs. 1,00,000 (Rupees one lakh)
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Grade III: Rs. 50,000 (Rupees fifty thousand)
Besides the cash award, recipients also receive a certificate with a suitable citation. The eligibility criteria for the award are:
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Acts of physical or moral courage displayed by an individual in saving the lives and properties of members of another community, caste, or ethnic group, during times of social conflict.
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Acts where the rescuer faced a substantial risk to their own life, body, or property or to their family member’s life.
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Individuals from all walks of life are eligible, except for Armed Forces, Police, and Fire Service personnel or government servants who acted within their official capacity.
Criteria for Different Grades
The three grades of the award recognize varying levels of courage and risk:
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Grade I: Awarded for acts where the rescuer faced very grave danger, potentially resulting in death or permanent incapacitation while saving others.
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Grade II: Awarded for acts where the rescuer faced considerable danger resulting in bodily injury to the rescuer, while saving lives and properties.
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Grade III: Awarded for general acts of courage and promptitude in saving the life and property.
Selection Process and Timing
Nominations for the award are made through State Governments and Union Territory administrations. A Screening Committee, consisting of the Union Home Secretary, Director (Intelligence Bureau), and Secretary (Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment), assesses proposals. The committee makes final recommendations for approval to the Union Home Minister and the Prime Minister.
The Kabir Puraskar is announced annually on October 2nd. This timing provides a platform for recognizing and celebrating acts of unity and social harmony. The award is given by the Central Government and presented by the Prime Minister at a special function in New Delhi.
Conclusion
The Kabir Puraskar Scheme serves as an inspirational reminder of the importance of social harmony and courage in India. By recognizing and honoring those who risk their lives to protect others, the scheme reinforces the core values of unity, compassion, and mutual respect. This initiative promotes the idea that every citizen can play a role in fostering peaceful coexistence and overcoming social barriers.