Chilli Icon of India Awards - 2026
Celebrating the heroes of India’s potato fields. Join us in recognizing the farmers, innovators, and scientists who are shaping the future of agriculture
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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 potato heroes - the farmers, innovators, and scientists who are revolutionizing potato 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.
Chilli Cultivation Excellence - General
Hybrid & High - Pungency Chilli Icons
Processing, Oleoresins, Dehydration & Spice Value Addition Icons
Chilli Seed, Breeding & Genetic Innovation Icons
Chilli Startup & Entrepreneurship Icons
Training, Extension & Community Capacity - Building Icons
Export, Branding & Spice Market Icons
Research, Technology & Horticultural Innovation Icons
Input, Fertigation & Protected Cultivation Technology Icons
FPO, Cooperative & Enterprise Leadership Icons
The Spice Crown Award - Lifetime Contribution
The Seed Innovator Award - Hybrid & Breeding Leadership
The Export Titan Award - Global Spice Market Excellence
The Culinary Identity Award - Gastronomy Leadership
The Indigenous Heritage Award - Landrace & Traditional Varieties
The Pride of India Award - National & Global Influence
The Legend of Indian Spices Award - Iconic National Contribution
Chilli Icons 20 Under 20
Chilli Icons 30 Under 30
Chilli Icons 40 Under 40
Chilli 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.