The Shiv Nadar Foundation, in partnership with Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, has opened nominations for the inaugural edition of India’s Best Teachers’ Awards 2026, a national initiative to recognise exceptional educators teaching Classes 9 to 12 across India.
School principals and heads of government and private schools can submit nominations until July 31, 2026. Award recipients will receive national recognition and a fully funded scholarship to participate in a one-week learning and development programme at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.
The awards aim to bring national visibility to exemplary educators whose work is improving learning outcomes, inspiring students, and strengthening school communities. By recognising teachers working in diverse settings, the initiative seeks to highlight the many forms that teaching excellence can take in India.
The awards are open to teachers of Geography, Business Studies and Entrepreneurship, Computer Science, Economics, Physics, English, Environmental Sciences, and Mathematics.
Applications will be assessed on subject expertise, innovation in teaching methodology, impact on student learning outcomes, and leadership within schools and communities.
Beyond recognition, the awards seek to promote continuous professional development and peer learning among educators. The week-long Oxford learning programme will provide award recipients with exposure to global perspectives on education, leadership and innovation, while creating opportunities for exchange with a wider community of practitioners and experts.
Shortlisted finalists will be invited to participate in the final stage of the awards process at Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, on September 4 and 5, 2026. School principals can submit nominations through the awards portal– https://indiateacherawards.evalato.com/
