India has always been a land where extraordinary stories emerge from its youngest citizens. From acts of exceptional bravery to groundbreaking innovations, from artistic brilliance to inspiring social service, children across the country continue to demonstrate that age is no barrier to courage, creativity, leadership and determination.
Recognising these remarkable achievements, the Government of India confers the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP), the nation’s highest civilian honour for children. Presented annually by the President of India, the award celebrates the resilience, talent and indomitable spirit of children aged between 5 and 18 years.
Since its inception in 2019, the award has become a prestigious platform for recognising young achievers who have made significant contributions to society, science, sports, culture, environmental protection and humanitarian causes.
A Legacy Rooted in Courage and Sacrifice
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is presented every year on Veer Bal Diwas, observed on December 26.
The date commemorates the supreme sacrifice of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, the young sons of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. At the ages of nine and seven respectively, the two Sahibzadas chose martyrdom rather than renouncing their faith in 1704.
Their courage, unwavering conviction and moral strength continue to inspire generations of Indians. By presenting Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on Veer Bal Diwas, the Government links the achievements of today’s youth with one of the most inspiring chapters in India’s history.
India’s Rich Tradition of Young Achievers
India’s history is filled with examples of extraordinary children and young leaders who left an indelible mark on society.
From revolutionary freedom fighter Khudiram Bose, who challenged colonial rule at a remarkably young age, to Adi Shankaracharya, who mastered profound spiritual and philosophical knowledge during childhood, India’s cultural and historical landscape has long celebrated youthful excellence.
Rashtriya Bal Puraskar seeks to continue that tradition by identifying and honouring contemporary young achievers who embody similar courage, dedication and vision.
Six Categories of Excellence
Rashtriya Bal Puraskar recognises exceptional achievements in six distinct categories.
Bravery
This category honours children who display exceptional courage and selflessness in the face of danger. Awardees often risk their own safety to save others or demonstrate extraordinary presence of mind during emergencies.
Social Service
Children who contribute significantly to community welfare, social awareness, child rights, women’s empowerment or public welfare initiatives are recognised under this category.
Environment
Young environmental champions who work towards conservation, sustainability, climate awareness and ecological protection receive recognition for their efforts.
Sports
This category honours outstanding sporting achievements at national and international levels, encouraging young athletes to pursue excellence.
Art and Culture
Children who excel in music, dance, painting, literature, performing arts and cultural preservation are recognised for promoting India’s rich artistic heritage.
Science and Technology
Innovators and young scientists who develop solutions to real-world problems through technology and scientific research are celebrated under this category.
Each award consists of a medal, citation and certificate, symbolising national recognition for exceptional achievement.
Inspiring Stories of Young Achievers
Over the years, Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awardees have showcased remarkable examples of courage, innovation and perseverance.
Turning Adversity into Innovation
One of the 2025 awardees, Arnav Anupriya Maharshi from Maharashtra, demonstrated how determination can overcome personal challenges. Despite being physically disabled, the young innovator developed an AI-based rehabilitation tool aimed at helping patients suffering from hand paralysis.
Courage in the Face of Danger
Among the bravery award recipients was Karina Thapa, who saved 36 lives during a fire incident by removing a gas cylinder from a burning site, preventing a potentially catastrophic explosion.
Another inspiring recipient, Aaditya Vijay Bramhane, was honoured posthumously after sacrificing his own life while attempting to rescue his drowning cousins from a river.
Young Voices Preserving Cultural Heritage
Anushka Pathak, recognised in the Art and Culture category, began performing Katha Vachan at the age of four and has delivered religious discourses across more than 22 states.
Similarly, Armaan Ubhrani, popularly known as Chhattisgarh’s “Google Math Boy,” became one of India’s youngest authors and mathematical prodigies.
Triumph Over Disabilities
One of the most inspiring stories is that of Hetvi Kantibhai Khimsuriya from Gujarat. Living with severe cerebral palsy, she has created hundreds of paintings and generously donates her disability pension to support other specially-abled children.
Sporting Excellence
Young chess sensation Charvi A achieved global recognition by becoming Under-8 World and Commonwealth Chess Champion and securing India’s top ranking in her age group.
Mountaineer R Surya Prasad demonstrated extraordinary endurance by scaling Mount Kilimanjaro at a remarkably young age.
Innovations for Social Good
In 2023, Aditya Pratap Singh Chauhan developed an affordable technology to detect and remove microplastics from drinking water.
Another awardee, Anoushka Jolly, created the “Anti-Bullying Squad Kavach” app to support students facing bullying and mental health challenges.
Meanwhile, Avnish Tiwari, a child with Down syndrome, inspired thousands by trekking to Everest Base Camp and becoming a symbol of inclusivity and determination.
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026: Nominations Open
The Government has invited nominations for Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2026, encouraging citizens to identify deserving young achievers from across the country.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, a nominee must – be an Indian citizen residing in India; be between 5 and 18 years of age as of July 31, 2026; not have previously received the award; have achieved the recognised accomplishment within two years preceding the nomination deadline.
While the award is generally not conferred posthumously, exceptional cases may be considered.
Who Can Nominate?
The nomination process is designed to be inclusive.
Nominations may be submitted by, individuals, educational institutions, government departments, Members of Parliament, Governors and Lieutenant Governors, Chief Ministers, District Magistrates and Collectors, and schools under Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti. Importantly, children can also nominate themselves.
Applicants are required to submit supporting documents, photographs and a detailed description of their achievements.
Selection Process
The selection process is overseen by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
An awards committee chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry evaluates nominations. The committee includes domain experts from various fields and recommends awardees to the Union Minister for Women and Child Development for final approval.
The objective is to ensure that deserving children from diverse backgrounds and regions receive national recognition.
Government Support for Awardees
To ensure that financial constraints do not become a barrier, the Government bears travel, accommodation and hospitality expenses for awardees and up to two accompanying parents or guardians.
Special travel arrangements may also be made for Divyang awardees to ensure their comfort and accessibility.
Building the Future Through Recognition
The significance of Rashtriya Bal Puraskar extends beyond medals and certificates. It serves as a powerful message that courage, compassion, innovation and perseverance are valued and celebrated by the nation.
The award not only honours individual achievements but also inspires millions of other children to pursue their dreams, contribute to society and overcome challenges.
By recognising young innovators, artists, athletes, environmentalists, social workers and heroes, India is investing in a future generation of leaders and changemakers.
A Call to Discover Hidden Talent
Across villages, towns and cities, countless young Indians are quietly making extraordinary contributions. Some are developing innovative technologies, others are protecting the environment, helping communities, excelling in sports or preserving cultural traditions.
Rashtriya Bal Puraskar offers a platform to bring these stories into the national spotlight.
As India moves towards its vision of a developed nation, recognising and nurturing such talent remains essential. Every nomination has the potential to uncover an inspiring story and encourage a child whose actions could shape the future of the country.
The award stands as a reminder that extraordinary leadership, courage and creativity often begin at a very young age – and that India’s brightest future may already be taking shape in the hands of its children.
