Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awarded by the President of India

New Delhi: On January 22, 2024, Indian President Draupadi Murmu presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awards to 19 children at an event in New Delhi. One child each received the award in the categories of bravery, science, technology and innovation; four children received the award in the social service category; five children received the award in the sports category; and seven children received the award in the arts and culture category.

In her speech, the President said the ceremony was an opportunity to encourage young people to realize their amazing potential and talents. It was also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of children. She praised all the children for their outstanding performance.

The President said that our children possess multiple talents. They have great potential and through dedication and hard work, they can create their own personality. It is our responsibility to point them in the right direction so that they can fully develop their talents and energies.

The President said that today India has a large number of young people, which is an invaluable resource. This resource can play an important role not only in the development of India but also in the development of the whole world. We must equip young people with the ability to use technology. We must encourage them to innovate and start businesses. Only then can they take their place in this ever-changing world.

The President said that today’s children are tech-savvy. They use technology for education. But technology is often misused. Many crimes like deep fakes, financial fraud, child exploitation are committed through technology. She said that social media is a powerful medium to express opinions and spread awareness among people about any issue, but it is also misused to spread rumors. She advised children to be vigilant and stay away from illegal activities because one wrong step can jeopardize their future.

The President noted that physical activity among the younger generation is decreasing. She said many diseases that were rare in children and adolescents in the past are increasing today due to the decrease in physical activity. She called on young people to learn at least one sport and participate in it. She said they may not take up sports as a career, but sports can keep them physically and mentally healthy. It fosters their team spirit.

The President said that children and youth are the future leaders of the country. It is our responsibility to make them aware of Indian culture and life values ​​and provide them with modern education. Talking about the dedication ceremony of the Prabhu Shri Rama idol in Ayodhya, she said that on this ceremony, we should resolve to integrate the ideals of Lord Rama and the life values ​​described in the Ramayana in our lives.