The National Awards Committee opened nominations for the "National Award for Public Service" on Sunday and published the award criteria in the Government Gazette. It is the most prestigious award conferred by the President on individuals who have served the nation for over 35 years and have been observed as diligent and steadfast workers. It was introduced in 2021.
 
Any individual who has worked in a government office, agency, or subsidiary where the government holds the most shares for over 35 years is eligible for the award. Nominations may be filed by organisations or by individual nominees.
 
The National Awards Committee would consider the quality of the nominees’ work and their contributions to the development of their respective fields. The award would also recognise the individual achievements of the nominees. Nominations would be accepted through the designated portal for the award: http://apply.presidency.gov.mv, from Sunday, March 19, 2023, to Sunday, April 30, 2023.