President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on children for their exceptional achievements in the fields, including bravery, sports, art and culture, and science and technology, at a ceremony on Friday. She expressed confidence that these awards will inspire all children across the country.

She presented awards to 17 children — seven boys and 10 girls — from 14 states, recognising achievements in art, sports, culture, and innovation. The event coincided with Veer Bal Diwas, honouring the courage of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s sons —Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh, and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.

To commemorate their sacrifice, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in 2022 that December 26 would be observed annually as Veer Bal Diwas.

Congratulating the recipients of the Puraskar, the President said the award-winning children have brought pride to their families, their communities, and the entire country. She stated that this award has been presented to them for their encouragement.

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said, ''About 320 years ago, Guru Gobind Singh Ji — the tenth Guru of the Sikh faith and revered by all Indians — and his four sons made supreme sacrifices while fighting in support of truth and justice. The bravery of the two youngest Sahibzadas is honoured and respected both in India and abroad.''

She remembered with reverence the great child heroes who laid down their lives with pride for truth and justice.

The President expressed confidence that the greatness of a country is certain when its children are filled with patriotism and high ideals. She was happy to note that the children have showcased their exceptional talent in various fields such as bravery, art and culture, environment, innovation, science and technology, social service, and sports.

''It is because of talented children such as the seven-year-old Vaka Lakshmi Pragnika that India is considered a chess powerhouse on the world stage. Ajay Raj and Mohammed Sidan P, who saved the lives of others with their bravery and intelligence, deserve all the praise they receive. Nine-year-old daughter Vyoma Priya and eleven-year-old brave son Kamlesh Kumar lost their lives while saving the lives of others,'' she said.

She also praised 10-year-old Shravan Singh, who, amid the risks associated with war during Operation Sindoor, regularly delivered water, milk, and lassi to the Indian soldiers stationed at the border near his home, whereas the differently abled daughter, Shivani Hosuru Uppara, has achieved extraordinary accomplishments in the world of sports, overcoming economic and physical limitations.

Praising Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who has made a name for himself in the highly competitive and talent-filled world of cricket and has set many records, President Murmu expressed confidence that brave and talented children like them will continue to do good work and make India's future bright.

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is the highest civilian honour for children in India. It is awarded annually to children in the age group of 5-18 years for their exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements in seven categories.