District and block-level education officers in Punjab have been given an opportunity to gain national recognition for their innovative initiatives and outstanding contributions to educational administration. The National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), New Delhi, has invited applications for the “National Awards for Innovation and Good Practices in Educational Administration 2025-26.”In this regard, State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), Punjab director Kiran Sharma has issued detailed guidelines to all District Education Officers (Secondary and Elementary) and block primary education officers (BPEOs) across the state.According to the instructions, eligible officers must submit their applications through the proper channel by June 5, 2026. Applications are to be sent via email to directorscert@punjabeducation.gov.in, with a mandatory copy marked to scertsdp@punjabeducation.gov.in. Officials have been informed that applications received after the deadline will not be considered, while incomplete or directly submitted applications will be rejected outright.The guidelines further state that all applications must be countersigned by the competent forwarding authority and should bear the officer’s name, designation and official seal. Applicants are also required to send two passport-size photographs in hard copy to the SCERT office.SCERT has directed forwarding authorities to take into account the integrity, credibility and professional conduct of applicants, along with the significance and impact of innovations introduced by them in educational administration.In addition to the prescribed application form, candidates must submit a detailed write-up of their work and a PowerPoint presentation highlighting their innovations and best practices. SCERT will scrutinise all applications and nominate eligible officers to NIEPA, New Delhi, according to the allotted quota.The awards aim to recognise and encourage innovative administrative practices that contribute to improving the quality and effectiveness of school education. Officials seeking further information have been advised to consult the official NIEPA website.