The President's Office has announced that the National Awards Committee will open nominations for this year's National Awards on Wednesday, March 25. Deadline for submitting nominations is set for 2pm on Thursday, April 30. 

This year, applications will only be accepted through the President's Office's form submission portal, the President's Office said, urging applicants to ensure all required documentation is submitted. 

Nominations are to be accepted for 39 categories. This year as well, applications will be accepted from private individuals, companies, associations and other entities, either on their own behalf on that of others, the President's Office said. 

The office further said that the National Awards Committee will later open nominations for the National Award for Public Service, on May 6.

The National Awards are to be presented at the official National Day function, on August 14. 

Although National Day has been officially marked for 75 years, the National Awards were introduced during the administration of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 1979. This is the 47th year when the National Awards are being presented.