ERDA Excellence Award for Leadership is recognition of individuals who exemplify the highest standards of leadership, acting as catalysts for positive change and transformation within their communities, organizations, and the society at large. This award recognizes their visionary leadership, integrity, and dedication to making a difference, recognizing them as role models and inspirations for future generations of leaders. ERDA bestows this honor upon people from academia, industry, and society at large.

• For Academic Leadership: This category acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing their institutions, fostering a culture of excellence, and inspiring positive change within the academic community. These visionary leaders exhibit a deep commitment to academic integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, empowering faculty, staff, and students to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of knowledge and society. The award is presented at three different levels:
  • • School Level:  Candidates serving as principal or vice principal at any government or private school in India or abroad are eligible to apply.
    • Department Level: Applicants holding positions such as Head of Department (HOD), Dean, Director, or equivalent roles at the department level in any government or private university or college in India or abroad can apply. It is separately given under following disciplines
      • • Faculty of Science
        • Faculty of Engineering and Technology
        • Faculty of Medical Sciences
        • Faculty of Commerce and Business Studies
        • Faculty of Management Studies
        • Faculty of Social Sciences
        • Faculty of Law
        • Faculty of Arts and Humanities
    • College Level: Applicants serving as Principal or Vice Principal position at any government or private College in India or abroad are eligible to self nominate for the Leadership Award under this category. 
    • University Level: Candidates serving as Vice Chancellor, Pro Vice Chancellor, Director, Registrar, Dean or equivalent position at any government or private university or institute in India or abroad are eligible to apply for the Academic Leadership Award under this category.
• For Corporate Leadership: This category is exclusively designed to honor corporate executives who have exhibited outstanding leadership in steering their organizations toward success, driving innovation, and creating positive social and economic impacts. These dynamic leaders demonstrate strategic vision, resilience, and ethical conduct, navigating complex challenges and opportunities with integrity and foresight. They inspire and motivate their teams to excel, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement that propels organizational growth and sustainability. The awards are presented at the following two levels:
  • • Senior-Level Management: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO), President or equivalent senior roles in any private or public limited company in India or abroad are eligible nominators for the award.
    • Middle-Level Management: People working as Manager and above in any private or public limited company in India or abroad are eligible to apply.
• For Social Leadership: This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership within their communities or spheres of influence. These leaders embody the values of compassion, integrity, and service, making significant positive impacts through their actions, advocacy, and commitment to social justice and equality. They inspire and mobilize others to effect meaningful change, fostering unity, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity.
• Selection Process: to identify the suitable candidates for leadership awards, following processes are followed:
  • • Application Submission: Candidates must apply for the award through ERDA website. Applicants are required to submit a brief description (maximum 500 words) outlining their leadership achievements and justifying their eligibility for the award. They may also choose to upload their CV (it is not compulsory, but preferable).
    • Digital Presence: Candidates are required to provide links to their profiles on social media and professional platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, ORCID, SCOPUS, Research Gate, SSRN, and Google Scholar among others. This information may be helpful for the selection committee during evaluation. Please note that some of these platforms are applicable only for academic members.
    • Evaluation Process: The evaluation process contains two stages:
      • Initial Review: Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted based on the CV and brief description provided.
      • Final Evaluation: Shortlisted applications will be forwarded to ERDA’s Non-Executive Body. A committee within this body will conduct a detailed evaluation, including inquiries through various sources, to select the final award recipients. The decision of the committee is final.
• Notification and Award Presentation: Once the selection is finalized, ERDA will notify the award recipients. The award includes a certificate and a trophy, which will be presented at an annual seminar, conference, or summit.