The Lokmanya Tilak National Award is a prestigious honor presented annually by the Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust to recognize individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the progress and development of the nation. For 2026, the award is conferred upon Ajit Doval in acknowledgment of his significant role in strengthening India's national security framework and strategic interests. The award ceremony is scheduled to be held on August 1, coinciding with the death anniversary of the nationalist leader Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak. This selection highlights the state's recognition of the critical importance of national security and intelligence in contemporary governance.