New Delhi, January 25: As many as 18 brave children, who kept ‘Humanity’ alive by showcasing their courage saved many lives were awarded with National Bravery Awards on Thursday. The awardees included seven girls. Three of the awards were given posthumously.
Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented the National Bravery Awards to 18 brave children. Interacting with the awardees, PM Modi said their deeds of bravery are discussed extensively, and also highlighted by the media. Therefore, he added, they inspire other children, and often engender a sense of self-confidence among other children.
PM Modi remarked that most of the awardees are from rural and humble backgrounds. He said that perhaps their daily struggles had helped instil resilience in them, to deal courageously in adverse situations.
The Prime Minister also congratulated all the award winners, their parents and schoolteachers. He also appreciated those, who recorded their instances of bravery, and helped draw attention to them. After such recognition, future expectations from the awardees become higher than usual. He wished them well in their future endeavours. Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi was present on the occasion.
The desirable Bharat Award was presented to sixteen-year-old Kumari Nazia of Uttar Pradesh. She showed courage in collecting evidence against the illegal business of gambling and betting and passed on information to the Police which led to the arrest of all the people involved in the racket.
The prestigious Geeta Chopra Award was given to 14-year old late Netrawati M. Chavan for saving two young boys from drowning. 16-year old Karanbeer Singh of Punjab was awarded with Sanjay Chopra Award for displaying outstanding bravery and saving lives of 15 school children.
The brave children will also participate in the Republic Day Parade. President Ram Nath Kovind will host a reception in their honour. Interestingly, the National Bravery Award Scheme was instituted by the Indian Council of Child Welfare to give due recognition to the children who distinguish themselves by performing outstanding deeds of bravery.