President Draupadi Murmu on Thursday presented the Prime Minister’s National Children’s Award to 17 children in recognition of their exceptional courage and outstanding achievements in various fields including art, culture, sports and innovation.
The President stressed the importance of nurturing and celebrating young talents.
“Providing opportunities and recognizing the talents of children has always been a part of our tradition. This tradition should be strengthened so that every child realizes his full potential,” she said.
The awards honor exceptional achievements in seven categories: arts and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports and environment.
The honourees – seven boys and ten girls selected from 14 states and union territories – were presented with medals, certificates and certificates of appreciation.
Among them was 14-year-old writer and disability advocate Keya Hatkar, recognized for her excellence in arts and culture.
Despite living with spinal muscular atrophy, he founded initiatives such as “IM POSSIBLE” and “SMA-ART” promoting inclusion and disability awareness.
President Murmu emphasized the importance of honoring such talents and said, “The tradition of recognizing and nurturing children’s abilities has always been a part of our culture. Their contribution will take India to the pinnacle of progress.” He emphasized the role of the Ministry of Women and Child Development in sharing these inspiring stories with the wider public.
The President also paid tribute to the immeasurable sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons, which is celebrated as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ on December 26, saying, “Their sacrifice for faith and self-respect inspires countless generations. On this day, the nation salutes their valor and spirit.” Among the other award winners was Ayan Sajad, a 12-year-old Sufi singer from Kashmir, for his soulful contribution to Kashmiri music, while 17-year-old Vyas Om Jignesh, who has cerebral palsy, was praised for his dedication to Sanskrit literature, reciting over 5,000 shlokas and performing in over 500 shows.
9-year-old Saurabh Kumar, who saved three girls from drowning, and 17-year-old Iona Thapa, who saved 36 residents from the fire, have been honored for their bravery.
“Examples of courage and patriotism in children strengthen faith in the country’s future. Such actions are truly commendable,” President Murmu remarked while presenting the awards to the two children.
In the innovation category, 15-year-old Sindhura Raja was awarded for creating self-stabilizing devices for Parkinson’s patients, and cyber security entrepreneur Rishik Kumar (17) was honored for starting Kashmir’s first cyber security firm.
“These children’s contributions to science, technology and innovation demonstrate their unparalleled ability to transform lives,” the President said.
Hembati Nag, a judo player from the Naxal-affected area, has been awarded in the sports category. She overcame many challenges to win a silver medal at the Khelo India National Games.
Referring to Nag’s story, President Murmu said, “Hembati’s resilience even in the face of adversity is an example of unparalleled courage and determination.” Chess prodigy Anish Sarkar, the youngest FIDE-ranked player at just three years old, was also awarded.
Envisioning the bright future of the awardees, the President added, “In 2047, we are celebrating the centenary of independence, these awardees will become enlightened citizens of the country. Such talented boys and girls will become the builders of a developed India, shaping its destiny through their talents and efforts. ”
“May every child of this nation have a bright and prosperous future, because in their success lies the future of India,” she said.
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