Young heroes shine: Crocodile fighter, 'soldier' & more win PM's children's award

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : President Draupadi Murmu on Friday presented the Prime Minister's National Children's Award to 20 children from 18 states and union territories, recognizing their exceptional achievements and contributions in various fields, including art, culture, sports, and innovation. President Murmu also gave her blessings to the awardees.

Shravan from Punjab had helped the army in 'Operation Sindoor'

10-year-old Shravan from Ferozepur was honoured in the social service category. He had supplied milk, tea, buttermilk and ice to the army during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. He said, "I never thought that I would get this award. I had to serve the soldiers." After receiving the award from the President, he said, "I am very happy to receive this award.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi receives the Child Award

14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi has achieved remarkable achievements in sports. He has hit the most sixes in the U-19 World Cup, and scored the youngest century in List A cricket, breaking a 39-year-old record held by Pakistan's Zahoor Elahi.

Nine-year-old Ajay Raj from Agra was awarded the Courage Award for saving his father from a crocodile by striking him with a stick. His bravery inspired thousands.

Esther is a YouTube star with 20 million followers

Nine-year-old Esther Lalduhawmi Hanamate from Mizoram received the Arts and Culture Award. Home Minister Amit Shah praised Lalduhawmi's song, and she was given a guitar. Hanamate's father is a blacksmith. Hanamate is a YouTube star with 20 million followers on her channel.

Vyoma gave up her life while saving a 6-year-old boy

8-year-old Vyoma Priya from Tamil Nadu was awarded the bravery award posthumously. She went to save a 6-year-old boy playing in a children's park, who was getting electrocuted by a slide that had come in contact with a broken electric cable. Vyoma Priya's mother Archana Sivarama Krishna received the award. The boy was saved, but Vyoma died. Her mother said, "This award is a mixed moment of pride and sadness for us. I wish Vyoma herself had come to receive the award."

Addressing the event, President Draupadi Murmu said, "All the children have brought pride to their families, society, and the entire country. Therefore, I congratulate the family members of these children as well. I commend Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi and her entire team for organizing the award ceremony for such good and promising children." Speaking about the significance of the day, the President said that Veer Bal Diwas is celebrated every year on December 26 to honor the courage and sacrifice of the Sahibzadas, the sons of the tenth Guru of Sikhism, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.