New Delhi, 26 December (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) on 20 exceptional children from across India, including young cricketer Vaibhav Suryawanshi, during a ceremony held on the occasion of Veer Baal Diwas at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The prestigious award recognises children aged between 5 and 18 years who have shown extraordinary achievements in diverse fields, including bravery, sports, environmental conservation, science and innovation, social service, art, and culture.

Congratulating the awardees, President Murmu said these children had brought pride not only to their families but also to the entire nation through their talent, courage, and sensitivity. It fills me with immense joy to see how today’s India is advancing by drawing strength from the brilliance, bravery, and compassion of its children, she remarked.

Highlighting the significance of Veer Baal Diwas, observed annually since 2022, the President spoke about the inspirational legacy of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his four sons. She recalled the supreme sacrifice of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh (aged 9) and Sahibzada Fateh Singh (aged 7), who were martyred defending truth and righteousness.

“Their unparalleled courage remains a source of reverence and patriotism across the world. Veer Baal Diwas is not just a remembrance of valor—it is a celebration of national unity and devotion,” she said.

The President also noted that the day marked the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Shaheed Udham Singh, paying tributes to his indomitable spirit and sacrifice.

Addressing the young achievers, President Murmu said the Prime Minister’s National Child Award provides a platform to encourage excellence and inspire countless other children to follow their dreams.

“It is heartening that this year’s awardees have demonstrated extraordinary potential in diverse areas and continue to excel in their respective fields,” she said.She made special mention of Waka Lakshmi Prajñika, the youngest awardee at just seven years old, as a reflection that “talent knows no age limit.”

The President also praised Ajay Raj and Mohammad Sidhan P., who were honoured for their fearless acts of bravery that saved lives, and expressed deep emotion while commemorating Vyoma Priya (9) and Kamlesh Kumar (11) — two young heroes who lost their lives while rescuing others. Their parents received the honors on their behalf, as the President offered prayers for the eternal peace of their souls.

President Murmu further lauded 10-year-old Shavan Singh, who delivered milk, water, and lassi to Indian Army soldiers deployed at the border during Operation Sindoor, calling his sense of duty and compassion “a symbol of India’s resilient spirit.”

The ceremony was attended by Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi, Minister of State Savitri Thakur, senior officials, and other dignitaries.

The President expressed confidence that these brave and talented children would continue to bring laurels to the nation and inspire their peers to pursue excellence and service with dedication.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar