Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a busy Saturday in New Delhi, turning the stage of the Bharat Mandapam into a showcase of India’s brightest young talents. The event, part of the national Veer Bal Diwas celebrations, featured the presentation of the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awards to children from 18 states and union territories.
President Dr. Droupadi Murmu awarded the medals on Friday, and the following morning, Modi met the winners during a relaxed conversation and performance‑rich program. Among those he spoke with was Vaka Lakshmi Pragnika, a 12‑year‑old who earned a gold medal for India at the World School Chess Championship. She shared her dreams of becoming one of the world’s leading chess players and chatted light‑heartedly about loving ladyfingers as a child.
The Prime Minister was visibly moved by the singing of Esther Lalduhawmi Hnamte of Mizoram, a Rashtriya Bal Puraskar laureate who delivered a stirring rendition of “Vande Mataram.” Her performance left Modi spellbound and prompted a heart‑felt applause from the crowd.
Modi also spoke with Shravan Singh of Firozpur, Punjab, who had been applauded for his self‑less support of soldiers during Operation Sindoor. Shravan recalled providing the troops with milk, tea, lassi, and ice every day. When asked if the soldiers remembered him, he affirmed, “Yes, sir, they do.” “I like doing that,” he added. “When I grow up, I want to become an Army officer and serve the country.”
Another awardee, 13‑year‑old Arnav Anupriya Maharshi, presented two innovative, “Made in India” tech solutions. The first is an AI‑based software that tracks finger movements to give real‑time feedback for patients with paralysis or cerebral palsy. The second is a smart wrist device that assists in full hand rehabilitation.
Kumari Jyoti, a para‑athlete and Under‑20 Asian Games medalist, discussed her sporting journey, the family support she has received, and her goal of winning a Paralympic gold for India. She, too, received a warm salute from the Prime Minister.
The program also included a segment honoring the Sahibzades of Guru Gobind Singh, highlighting their historical legacy and supreme sacrifice. Modi paid tribute to these freedom fighters and congratulated all the award‑winning children for their inspiring achievements.
The event underscored the young generation’s courage, talent, and dedication, and the PM’s personal engagement with the winners showcased the government’s recognition and encouragement of exceptional youth contributions across the nation.
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