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Shravan Singh (10), who regularly delivered water, milk and lassi to soldiers posted near his border village during Operation Sindoor.
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on 20 children for exceptional achievements across Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture, and Science & Technology at a ceremony in New Delhi.
Highlighting the significance of Veer Bal Diwas, observed on December 26, the President recalled the supreme sacrifices made nearly 320 years ago by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his four sons in the pursuit of truth and justice. She said the courage of the two younger Sahibzadas—Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh—continues to be honoured in India and abroad.
Citing inspiring examples, Murmu said India’s stature as a global chess powerhouse is strengthened by prodigies like seven-year-old Vaka Lakshmi Pragnika. She lauded the bravery of Ajay Raj and Mohammed Sidan P for saving lives through presence of mind and courage.
The President also paid tribute to Vyoma Priya (9) and Kamlesh Kumar (11), who lost their lives while rescuing others. She noted the selfless service of Shravan Singh (10), who regularly delivered water, milk and lassi to soldiers posted near his border village during Operation Sindoor, and applauded the sporting achievements of differently-abled athlete Shivani Hosuru Uppara, accomplished despite economic and physical challenges. Murmu also praised young cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi for setting records in a highly competitive arena.
“The greatness of a nation is assured when its children are guided by patriotism and high ideals,” the President said, expressing happiness at the awardees’ excellence across diverse fields, including innovation, science and technology, environment, social service, art and culture, and sports.
Addressing the gathering, Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi said the awardees had demonstrated that self-belief and dedication can overcome resource constraints. She added that this year’s honours recognise 20 children from 18 States and Union Territories, reflecting India’s diversity.
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is a prestigious national honour conferred annually by the Government of India to celebrate extraordinary excellence among children. In 2025, 20 young achievers from 18 States and Union Territories were selected for the award.
