Applicants must be born in Puducherry, have resided in Puducherry for five years, or have continuous residence within the jurisdiction before the application date.

No, an awardee under this scheme is ineligible to apply for the subsequent four years.

Yes, texts must not be an abridgement, adaptation, translation, or paraphrase of another text. Categories such as novels, short stories, poetry, drama, travelogue, and collection of essays are not eligible.

Research books must not be less than 150 pages.

The first edition must have been printed and published by December 31 of the year preceding the award year.

A separate application form and five copies of the text must be included with each submission.

No, the texts received for the competition cannot be returned for any reason.

The author will receive ₹10,000 and a certificate.

A panel of experts nominated by the Government will scrutinize and select the prize-winning books.

No, there is no age limit for applicants.

Yes, the Government has the power to provide more than one award if deemed necessary.

The Government's decision regarding any issues in the implementation of the scheme is final and cannot be contested in court.

Yes, the Government has full power to change, delete, or amend the rules relating to the award as necessary.