President presents award to 17 children for exceptional achievements in various fields

President honors 17 children for exceptional achievements in art, bravery, innovation, science, social service, sports, and environment.

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday (December 26, 2024) conferred the Prime Minister’s National Award on 17 children, in seven categories, for their exceptional achievements in their fields.

The ‘Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar’ celebrates extraordinary accomplishments in seven categories: art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports and environment.

While congratulating the award winners, the President said the entire country was proud of them. She told the children that they have done extraordinary work, achieved amazing accomplishments, have limitless capabilities, and possess incomparable qualities and have set an example for the children of the country.

“Providing opportunities and recognising children’s talents have always been a part of our tradition. This tradition should be further strengthened to ensure that every child realises its full potential,” she said.

“Examples of courage and patriotism in children strengthen the nation’s confidence in its future. Such acts are truly commendable,” she said.

The awardees — seven boys and 10 girls — were selected from 14 States and union territories.

Among them is Keya Hatkar, a 14-year-old author and disability advocate, recognised for her excellence in art and culture, Ayaan Sajad, a 12-year-old Sufi singer from Kashmir, honoured for his soulful contributions to Kashmiri music, and 17-year-old Vyas Om Jignesh, who has cerebral palsy, was awarded for his dedication to Sanskrit literature, having memorised over 5,000 slokas.