AICU Opens Nominations for National Awards Honouring Exemplary Catholic Lay Leadership

Panaji, June 18, 2026: Recognising the invaluable contribution of Catholic lay faithful to nation-building and community development, the All India Catholic Union (AICU) has invited nominations for the AICU National Awards 2024–26, which honour outstanding service in the fields of civil, civic and community engagement.

The prestigious awards seek to acknowledge Catholic lay individuals and organisations whose commitment to public welfare, social justice, empowerment and community development has made a significant impact on society. Through this initiative, AICU aims to celebrate the spirit of service and leadership that reflects the Church’s mission in the public sphere.

According to the announcement, the awards are open exclusively to Catholic lay persons from across India and will be presented in three categories.

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The Civil Service Award will recognise individuals who are serving or have served in public service and have demonstrated exemplary dedication to the common good. The Civic Service Award is intended for individuals or non-governmental organisations engaged in improving the quality of life and welfare of communities. The Community Service Award for Women will honour women or organisations working to empower people through social, economic, civic and cultural initiatives.

The awardees will be felicitated during the AICU Annual General Meeting scheduled to be held in Delhi on August 22–23, 2026. Each recipient will receive a citation, a memento, a cash prize of ₹25,000, along with travel and accommodation arrangements.

AICU leaders have encouraged dioceses, organisations and individuals to recommend deserving candidates whose work exemplifies Christian values and social commitment. Applications and recommendations may be submitted via email to aicufile@yahoo.com or sent in hard copy to the AICU office in Goa.

For further information, interested applicants may contact Lancy D’Cunha (9243301989), Elias Vas (9822153833), Rita D’Sa (9820769469) or Dominic Chettiar (9821168169).

The last date for submitting nominations is July 20, 2026.

By instituting these national awards, AICU seeks not only to honour outstanding achievements but also to inspire greater participation of the laity in building a just, compassionate and inclusive society rooted in the values of the Gospel.

By Catholic Connect Reporter