The scheme of National Awards for Teachers was started in the year 1958-59 with the object of raising the prestige of teachers and public recognition to the meritorious services of outstanding teachers working in Primary, Middle and High Secondary teachers. In 1967-68 the scope of the scheme was enlarged to cover teachers of Sanskrit Pathshalas, Tolls etc. run on traditional lines. In 1976 the scheme was further enlarged to cover Arabic/Persian teachers of madrasas run on traditional lines. From the Award year 1993 the Scheme has further been enlarged to cover teachers from Sainik Schools, Navodaya Vidyalyas and schools run by the Atomic Energy Education Society. Earlier CBSE had been allocated a quota of 10 awards -2 for each zone subject to availability in case of shortfall to recommendations from the entitled States/UTs and organizations. Each award carries with it a certificate of merit, a cash award money of Rs.25,000/- and a silver medal. The enhanced amount has been given to the National Awardee from the Award year 1999.
This award is conferred upon the eligible teachers by the President of India on the eve of Teacher’s Day i.e. 5th of September every year as per the recommendations of the State Government concerned. The Govt. of India has earmarked two National Awards for UT, Chandigarh i.e one for the Teachers at Primary level and one for the teachers at Secondary level.
