In a grand ceremony held at Lok Bhavan, Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma presented the Governor’s Awards for Excellence 2025, recognising individuals and organisations for exemplary and selfless public service. The felicitation was part of the Republic Day “At Home” reception and was attended by the Deputy Chief Minister, the Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court, senior officials, and other distinguished guests.

Instituted by the Governor in 2024, the awards were expanded this year beyond earlier categories such as Environment Protection and Sports to include Women Empowerment, Tribal Development, Rural Health & Medical Philanthropy, and Corporate Volunteering. Addressing the gathering, the Governor said the awards transcend mere recognition and embody the spirit of unwavering commitment, selfless dedication, and a deep sense of public duty. He described the awardees as inspirations who tirelessly ignite positive change, nurture awareness, and uplift communities.

Nominations for the 2025 awards opened in November 2025 and received an overwhelming response of 279 entries through both online and offline channels. A distinguished jury, chaired by K. Padmanabhaiah, IAS (Retd.), former Union Home Secretary and Padma Bhushan awardee, meticulously evaluated the nominations. The jury comprised Dr Sunitha Krishnan (Padma Shri awardee), C.R. Biswal, IAS (Retd.), Dr Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Ramesh Kaza, and J. Bhavani Shankar. Each award carries a cash prize of Rs. 2,00,000 along with a citation.