Over one thousand five hundred applications have been received from about 600 districts across States and Union Territories under the Priority Programmes category for Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Public Administration. Eight hundred thirty applications have been received from organizations of Central/ State Government/District under the Innovation category. <br/><br/>The Awards are instituted to acknowledge, recognize and reward extraordinary and innovative work done by Districts/Organizations of the Central and State Governments. There shall be a maximum of 15 awards under the Priority Programme category and 2 awards under the Innovation category. <br/>In addition to the awards in Priority Programmes, awards will be given to organizations for innovations in Environment Conservation, Disaster Management, Water Conservation, Energy, Education and Health, Women and Child Centric Initiatives.<br/><br/>Applications for the awards were received from 1st January to 25th January this year through the online portal. The applications will be evaluated on a holistic basis by high level committees at three levels. Shortlisted candidates shall make presentations and citizen feedback will also be obtained through a call center. Spot studies will be conducted to verify implementation of the programme. The awards will be presented on Civil Services Day 2017.