On Thursday, President Droupadi Murmu presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 17 exceptional children, recognizing their outstanding achievements in fields such as art, culture, sports, innovation, and bravery. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent, saying, “Providing opportunities and recognising children’s talents has always been a part of our tradition. This tradition should be further strengthened to ensure that every child realises their full potential.”
Awards Across Seven Categories
The awards, which celebrate extraordinary accomplishments, are presented in seven categories: art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and the environment. The recipients, seven boys and ten girls from 14 states and Union territories, were given medals, certificates, and citation booklets.
Inspiring Stories of the Awardees
Among the recipients was 14-year-old Keya Hatkar, an author and disability advocate, who was honoured for her work in art and culture. Despite living with spinal muscular atrophy, Keya initiated the “IM POSSIBLE” and “SMA-ART” projects to promote inclusivity and disability awareness.
In the bravery category, 9-year-old Saurav Kumar was recognised for saving three girls from drowning, while 17-year-old Ioanna Thapa was honoured for rescuing 36 residents from a fire. President Murmu praised their courage, stating, “Examples of courage and patriotism in children strengthen the nation’s confidence in its future.”
Innovations and Achievements
In innovation, 15-year-old Sindhoora Raja was honoured for developing self-stabilising devices for Parkinson’s patients, and 17-year-old Risheek Kumar was recognised for launching Kashmir’s first cybersecurity firm.
Among other honourees was 12-year-old Sufi singer Ayaan Sajad, recognised for his contributions to Kashmiri music, and 17-year-old Vyas Om Jignesh, who memorised over 5,000 shlokas and performed in more than 500 shows, despite living with cerebral palsy.
In sports, Hembati Nag, a judo player from a Naxal-affected area, received recognition for her silver medal win at the Khelo India National Games. Chess prodigy Anish Sarkar, the youngest FIDE-ranked player at three years old, was also honoured.
Remembering Sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh’s Sons
The President concluded her speech by paying tribute to the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons, commemorated on December 26 as ‘Veer Bal Diwas.’ She stated, “Their sacrifices for faith and self-respect continue to inspire countless generations. On this day, the nation bows in reverence to their bravery and spirit.”
(With PTI Inputs)
