# UP Gaurav Samman

UP Gaurav Samman or Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman is a civilian award presented by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, India. It recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, including arts, culture, literature, education, science, technology, sports, and social service. The award is aimed at honoring excellence and promoting the cultural, intellectual, and economic development of the state and the nation.
Currently one of the top civilian honors in India, the recipients are awarded a citation, a state emblem made in brass and a cash prize. There have been two recipients of the award so far. Naveen Tewari, Founder and CEO of InMobi and Dr Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, a senior ISRO scientist, were the first two recipients of the honor.

## History

The UP Gaurav Samman was instituted to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of individuals who have either originated from or have significant ties to Uttar Pradesh. The award is seen as a symbol of pride for the state, emphasizing its rich cultural heritage and its contribution to the nation in various fields. It would replace Yash Bharati Samman as the highest civilian honor of the Government of Uttar Pradesh.
The award was announced in 2021 and entries were sought for 2022-23 year. However, no honors were given that year. Entries were sought again for the 2023-24 year with November 2023 as the deadline for the nominations. Naveen Tewari and Dr. Ritu Karidhal were honored with Gaurav Samman on Uttar Pradesh Divas, also known as the Uttar Pradesh Day, observed on the 24th January and the awards were presented by the Chief Minister of the state, Yogi Adityanath. The awardees received a citation, a state emblem made in brass and a cash prize of INR 11 lakhs (US$ 13,000) each.

## Award categories

The UP Gaurav Samman is awarded in a variety of categories, including:
* Arts and culture: For contributions in visual arts, performing arts, and cultural preservation.
* Agriculture: For contributions in farming innovation, sustainable agricultural practices, and advancements in agro-technology that have enhanced productivity and livelihoods in rural areas.
* Education and literature: For advancements in the field of education, research, and literary works.
* Entrepreneurship: For outstanding achievements in business innovation, leadership, and the creation of successful enterprises that contribute to economic growth and job creation.
* Science and technology: For innovation and research in scientific disciplines.
* Skill development: For efforts in enhancing vocational training, upskilling the workforce, and promoting initiatives that empower individuals with the skills needed for employment and entrepreneurship.
* Sports: For achievements in national and international sporting events.
* Social service: For efforts in humanitarian work, social reform, and community service.

## Selection process

Recipients of the UP Gaurav Samman are selected through a detailed evaluation process, along the lines of Yash Bharati Samman. Nominations are reviewed based on the candidate's contributions, their impact on society, and their role in promoting the image and development of Uttar Pradesh. A selection committee, consisting of experts and government officials, makes the final decision.

## Significance

The award is the highest civilian honor in the state of Uttar Pradesh and one of the highest in the country. It brings recognition not only at the state level but also nationally, highlighting the contributions of individuals who have brought pride to the state. Recipients are seen as role models, and their achievements inspire others to contribute to society's development and growth.

## Notable recipients

| Year | Name | Image | Occupation & Designation | Description |
| 2023-24 | Naveen Tewari | Naveen Tewari receiving UP Gaurav Samman from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on UP Day | Entrepreneur Founder & CEO, InMobi Group | Founded India's first unicorn and founded yet another unicorn in Glance. |
| 2023-24 | Dr. Ritu Karidhal | Dr. Ritu receiving UP Gaurav Samman from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on UP Day | Scientist India Space Research Organization (ISRO) | Played a crucial role in the Chandrayaan Mission as the Mission Director of Mission Moon. |