In a heartening celebration of youthful talent and resilience, a 14-year-old judo champion from a village impacted by Maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh was honoured with the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar. The national award was presented by President of India, Droupadi Murmu, at a grand ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi on Friday.
A Ceremony Celebrating Excellence
The event at Vigyan Bhavan saw the convergence of exceptional children from various corners of the country. These young achievers were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments across a diverse range of fields. Alongside sports, children were awarded for their remarkable work in innovation, dedicated social service, and significant contributions to art and culture. This annual ceremony stands as a testament to the government's commitment to nurturing and celebrating the potential of India's youth.
Triumph Over Adversity
The story of the young judoka from Chhattisgarh is particularly inspiring. Hailing from a village that has long faced challenges due to Left-Wing Extremism, her achievement shines a light on hope and determination rising above difficult circumstances. Excelling in the demanding sport of judo requires immense discipline, strength, and perseverance—qualities she has demonstrated in abundance. Her recognition on a national platform like the Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is not just a personal victory but also a symbolic win for countless children in similar regions, proving that talent can flourish anywhere.
Significance of the National Honour
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is one of the highest civilian awards for citizens under the age of 18 in India. Being conferred by the President herself adds immense prestige to the honour. For the awardee from Chhattisgarh, this moment marks a pivotal point in her life and career. It serves as powerful validation of her hard work and opens doors to greater opportunities in sports and beyond. Her journey is likely to motivate other youngsters in her community and across the nation to pursue their passions with grit.
The award ceremony on Friday, 26 December 2025, successfully highlighted how India's future is being shaped by its courageous and talented children. The judo player's story, from a Maoist-affected village to the national stage at Vigyan Bhavan, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the awards: recognizing excellence while inspiring millions.
