- By Ritesh Kumar
- Thu, 26 Dec 2024 03:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
President Droupadi Murmu presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 17 children on Thursday, acknowledging their outstanding achievements in diverse fields such as art, culture, sports, innovation, and bravery. Emphasising the significance of nurturing young talent, she remarked, "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."
Recognition In Seven Categories
The awards celebrate extraordinary accomplishments in seven categories: art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and environment. The honourees, comprising seven boys and ten girls from 14 states and Union territories, received medals, certificates, and citation booklets.
Inspiring Stories Of The Awardees
Keya Hatkar, a 14-year-old author and disability advocate, was recognised for her excellence in art and culture. Living with spinal muscular atrophy, she initiated projects like "IM POSSIBLE" and "SMA-ART" to promote inclusivity and disability awareness.
In bravery, 9-year-old Saurav Kumar was honoured for saving three girls from drowning, while 17-year-old Ioanna Thapa rescued 36 residents from a fire. President Murmu commended their courage, stating, "Examples of courage and patriotism in children strengthen the nation's confidence in its future."
In the innovation category, 15-year-old Sindhoora Raja was awarded for developing self-stabilising devices for Parkinson's patients, and 17-year-old cybersecurity entrepreneur Risheek Kumar was recognised for launching Kashmir's first cybersecurity firm.
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Ayaan Sajad, a 12-year-old Sufi singer from Kashmir, was honoured for his contributions to Kashmiri music. Vyas Om Jignesh, a 17-year-old with cerebral palsy, was lauded for his dedication to Sanskrit literature, having memorised over 5,000 shlokas and performed in more than 500 shows.
In sports, Hembati Nag, a judo player from a Naxal-affected area, was recognised for her resilience and silver medal win at the Khelo India National Games. Chess prodigy Anish Sarkar, the youngest FIDE-ranked player at just three years old, was also honoured.
The President paid tribute to the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons, commemorated on December 26 as 'Veer Bal Diwas.' She remarked, "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)
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