The Sheikh Kamal National Sports Council Award, formerly known as the National Sports Award, is the highest accolade in Bangladeshi sports. Established in the 1980s, it was initially discontinued in the early 1990s. However, in 2021, former Youth and Sports Minister Zahid Ahsan Russel revived the award under its current name, commemorating the birth anniversary of Sheikh Kamal, the eldest son of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the founder of Dhaka Abahani, one of Bangladesh's most popular sporting clubs. For the past three years, the award ceremony has been held on August 5th, coinciding with Sheikh Kamal's birthday.
Individuals or organizations interested in applying for the award must submit their applications by May 21st in the prescribed format to the Secretary of the National Sports Council. The National Sports Council has disseminated the announcement to all federations, district-divisional sports organizations, and various departments.
While the National Sports Award requires applications, the Sheikh Kamal National Sports Council Award also considers individuals who have made significant contributions to sports without applying. The National Sports Award typically honors senior sportspersons and organizers, while the Sheikh Kamal National Sports Council Award recognizes current athletes. The latter award aims to provide recognition to those who may not have received the National Sports Award.
Recipients of the Sheikh Kamal National Sports Council Award receive a cash prize of one lakh taka, a crest, and a certificate.
The Sheikh Kamal National Sports Council Award plays a crucial role in recognizing and honoring individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to the Bangladeshi sporting landscape. It serves as a testament to their dedication, passion, and achievements, inspiring others to pursue excellence in their respective fields.