The National Film Awards, commonly known as the National Awards, are arguably the most prestigious and prominent film awards in India. The Awards are presented annually, in a ceremony, by the President of India. Declared for films produced in the previous year across the country, they hold the distinction of awarding merit to the best of Indian Cinema overall, as well as presenting awards for the best films in each region and language of the country.

The Awards were first presented in 1954. The Government of India conceived the ceremony to honour films made across India, on a national scale, to encourage the furthering of Indian art and culture.

The National Film Awards are presented in two main categories: Feature Films and Non-Feature Films. Two separate 10-member jury panels select the winners for each, and these juries are appointed by the Directorate of Film Festivals in India. Neither the Government or the Directorate have influence over which films are selected for consideration and which films ultimately win awards. There are strict criteria as to whether a film is eligible for consideration by the jury panels. Over 100 films made across the country are entered in each category (Feature and Non-Feature) for the awards and deemed eligible each year.

The Awards presented to Feature Films are given in many categories including the following:

• Best Film
• Best Direction
• Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment
• Best Children's Film

• Best Actor
• Best Actress
• Best Supporting Actor
• Best Supporting Actress
• Best Child Artist
• Best Cinematography
• Best Screenplay
• Best Music Direction
• Best Lyrics
• Best Male Playback Singer
• Best Female Playback Singer
• Best Choreography
• Best Audiography
• Best Special Effects
• Special Jury Award / Special Mention (Feature Film)