The nation is set to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzadas and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of contemporary children in a powerful dual tribute. The Government of India has announced the observance of Veer Bal Diwas on December 26, followed by the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) 2025 awards ceremony on January 22. These events collectively underscore the nation's focus on valour, resilience, and the immense potential of its young citizens.
The Legacy of Sacrifice: Veer Bal Diwas
Veer Bal Diwas, observed annually on December 26, is a solemn day dedicated to remembering the courage of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji – Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, and Fateh Singh. The day honours their indomitable spirit and ultimate sacrifice for their faith and principles. The commemoration serves as a national reminder of the virtues of bravery and righteousness from a young age, inspiring millions of children across the country.
Official ceremonies and educational programs are organized nationwide to narrate the story of the Sahibzadas. The day is marked by a collective reflection on their fearlessness, encouraging the youth of today to embody similar strength of character and love for the nation.
Celebrating Modern-Day Achievers: Bal Puraskar 2025
Transitioning from historical valour to present-day excellence, the government will confer the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 on January 22. These are among the highest civilian honours for Indians below the age of 18, recognizing exceptional achievements in six key fields.
The award categories for the Bal Puraskar 2025 are:
- Art & Culture: For distinguished talent in performing, visual, or literary arts.
- Bravery: For exemplary acts of courage and presence of mind.
- Innovation: For groundbreaking inventions and technological creativity.
- Science & Technology: For significant contributions and research in scientific domains.
- Social Service: For impactful initiatives in community development and welfare.
- Sports: For outstanding performance and accomplishments in various sporting disciplines.
Each awardee receives a medal, a certificate, and a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh. The selection process is rigorous, managed by a national-level committee that scrutinizes nominations from across India to identify the most deserving young icons.
A Unified Tribute to India's Youth
The sequence of Veer Bal Diwas and the Bal Puraskar ceremony creates a profound narrative arc. It connects the timeless legacy of youthful sacrifice with the contemporary stories of young geniuses, change-makers, and champions. This dual celebration sends a powerful message about the values India cherishes in its next generation: courage, innovation, compassion, and excellence.
These events are not just about awarding individuals; they are national initiatives to spotlight role models for other children. By honouring both historical figures and living achievers, the government aims to foster a culture where merit and bravery are recognized and celebrated from an early age. The stories of the Sahibzadas and the PMRBP 2025 winners collectively serve as a beacon, inspiring every young Indian to dream big and contribute meaningfully to society.
As the country prepares for these celebrations, the focus remains firmly on the power of youth. From remembering the fearless Sahibzadas who stood firm for their convictions to applauding the modern child prodigies breaking barriers in science, sports, and service, India is reinforcing its commitment to nurturing a proud, capable, and resilient young generation.
