Aqua Icon of India Awards - 2026
Celebrating the heroes of India’s wheat fields. Join us in recognizing the farmers, innovators, and scientists who are shaping the future of agriculture.
Nominate Now
About the Initiative
Welcome to the first edition of a national recognition movement under Krishi Jagran's Crop Icons mission. This initiative aims to discover, celebrate, and amplify the stories of India's unsung wheat heroes - the farmers, innovators, and scientists who are revolutionizing wheat cultivation and ensuring food security for our nation.
Mission
To identify, honor, and amplify the contributions of every individual and institution shaping India’s rice sector - from seed to science, soil to sustainability.
Vision
To create a living national archive of India’s rice champions, ensuring their work inspires future generations and strengthens India’s position as a global rice leader.
Key Dates
Nomination Opens
Dec 10, 2025
Nomination Closes
Mar 15, 2026
Shortlist Announcement
Mar 15, 2026
Awards Ceremony
Apr 24, 2026
Who Can Apply?
Nominations are open to all individuals, groups, and institutions contributing to India’s rice ecosystem. We welcome applicants who are driving change and excellence in the field.
Farmers & Growers
Individuals and groups cultivating rice with innovative and sustainable practices.
FPOs & Cooperatives
Organizations empowering farmers through collective action and resource sharing.
Innovators & Startups
Entrepreneurs and startups introducing groundbreaking agri-tech solutions for rice.
Scientists & Researchers
Academics advancing rice science through cutting-edge research and development.
Millers & Exporters
Businesses adding value to the rice supply chain from processing to global trade.
Educators & NGOs
Institutions and workers dedicated to community development and knowledge transfer.
Categories of Recognition
Mainstream Categories
Recognizing core contributions to the rice sector.
Aquaculture Excellence - Freshwater
Shrimp & Brackish Water Aquaculture Excellence
Marine Fisheries & Mariculture Icons
Aqua Feed, Nutrition & Health Management Icons
Processing, Cold Chain & Value Addition Icons
Aqua Startup & Entrepreneurship Icons
Technology, Biofloc, RAS & Cage Culture Icons
FPO, Cooperative & Enterprise Leadership Icons
Export, Branding & Global Market Icons
The Blue Gold Award - Lifetime Contribution
The Rising Tide Award - Youth Aqua Trailblazer
The Ocean Legacy Honour - Legends of Fisheries
The Indigenous Species Protector Award
The Pride of India Award - Global Aqua Impact
The Guardian of Blue Award - Sustainability Leadership
The Voice of the Waters Award - Aqua Communication Icons
Aqua Icons 20 Under 20
Aqua Icons 30 Under 30
Aqua Icons 40 Under 40
Aqua Icons 40 Plus 40
Nomination Process
Online Submission
Fill out the nomination form on our website.
Information Required
Provide detailed information and supporting documents.
Verification
Our team will verify the submitted details.
Evaluation
A jury of experts will evaluate the nominations.
Evaluation Criteria
The nominations will be evaluated based on the following criteria.
Impact
Demonstrable positive effect on the community, environment, or economy.
Sustainability
Practices that are environmentally friendly and economically viable long-term.
Originality
Novelty and innovativeness of the idea or practice.
Scalability
Potential for the innovation to be replicated and adopted widely.
Inspiration
The power of the story to inspire others in the agricultural sector.
Execution
Proven track record and successful implementation of the initiative.
Recognition and Rewards
Trophy & Certificate
A prestigious trophy and official certificate of recognition.
Publication Feature
Featured story in Krishi Jagran's national publications.
Digital Showcase
Profile on our website and promotion across social media.
Networking Opportunity
Connect with industry leaders and policymakers.
Mentorship Access
Access to mentorship from leading agri-experts.