Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Dr Shrikant Eknath Shinde has been chosen for the prestigious Sansad Ratna Award 2026, marking the second time he will receive this honour for his exemplary performance in Parliament and contributions to public issues. Dr Shinde previously received the award in 2024.
About the Sansad Ratna Award
The Sansad Ratna Award is presented to outstanding parliamentarians in recognition of their effective participation in legislative proceedings, raising public issues, and contributions towards strengthening parliamentary democracy. According to the award committee, Dr Shinde’s selection was based on his active participation in parliamentary debates, consistent follow-up on public issues, quality interventions in discussions, and introduction of six private member bills over the past year.
Evaluation Criteria
The committee evaluates MPs on several parameters, including attendance in Parliament, participation in debates, questions raised, legislative contributions, and overall parliamentary performance. This year, 10 Lok Sabha MPs, two Rajya Sabha MPs, and members of four parliamentary committees have been selected for the honour.
History and Selection Process
The award was instituted in 2010 by the Prime Point Foundation following a suggestion from former President Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. The selection process relies on official parliamentary records, PRS Legislative Research data, and inputs from the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha secretariats.
Private Member Bills Introduced
Among the six private member bills introduced by Dr Shinde are proposals related to Deepfake Regulation, National Natural Disaster Control and Welfare Board, Cow Protection and Conservation, Orphan Child Welfare and Development, amendments to the Right to Education Act, and the Advocates Act. Sources close to the MP said the bills focused on emerging technological challenges, disaster management, legal reforms, education, and social welfare issues.
Constituency Work and International Delegation
Over the past few years, Dr Shinde has actively raised issues related to the Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency, including railway infrastructure, urban development, healthcare facilities, transport, employment generation, and environmental concerns. Apart from his parliamentary role, Dr Shinde recently led an all-party Indian delegation to the UAE, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of Congo after Operation Sindoor. During these visits, he highlighted India’s stand against terrorism and presented the country’s zero-tolerance policy on terror at international forums.
