Bollywood actress Sharmila Tagore Wednesday said the Gurukul Jyoti award, instituted for excellence in education, is very timely.

"I consider it a privilege to be here. I think we are making history by launching this initiative. We are embarking on a very important movement in the history of education," Tagore said.

She said, like all other parents, she too was confused.

"I was an unsure parent when it came to giving advice to my children. I didn't know where to head for authentic advice or the options available. So, I gladly welcome the initiative."

On Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), she said, "I pray that all districts of India soon have IITs and IIMs."

"We need an independent organisation like Gurukul Jyoti to be our guardian of educational excellence," she said.

Around 6,000 institutions, including coaching institutes, can apply for this award. The award will be given away Feb 25, 2007.