New Delhi: The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 was awarded Friday, recognising 20 children for exceptional achievements in bravery, sports, innovation, arts and culture and social service. The awards were handed out by President Draupadi Murmu in New Delhi; two of the children were awarded posthumously, their parents accepted on their behalf.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
This 14-year-old cricketer from Bihar has stunned the world with his impressive performances in domestic and International U-19 cricket. He holds the domestic record for being the youngest to score a century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His aggressive batting style and consistency have marked him as a significant prospect for Indian cricket. The award recognised his excellence in sports.
Shvan Singh
A 10-year-old from Ferozepur, Punjab, Shvan served Indian Army soldiers during Operation Sindoor near the Pakistan border. He travelled every day to forward posts to deliver essential supplies like water, milk and tea to troops in the forward zones. His support and morale-boosting presence earned him the title of ‘Youngest Civil Warrior’ from the Army. He has been awarded for his bravery.
Byoma (Vyoma Priya)
A 9-year-old from Tamil Nadu, Byoma has been honoured posthumously for an act of supreme sacrifice. She lost her life in rescuing a 6-year-old boy who had come in contact with an electrified slide in a park. Despite the danger of electrocution, she intervened to save the younger child. Her parents have received the award on her behalf.
Kamlesh Kumar
Hailing from Kaimur, Bihar, Kamlesh, 11, is a posthumous recipient of the bravery award. He sacrificed his life to save a child from drowning in the Durgawati river. Witnessing the child’s struggle, he dove in without hesitation, prioritising the other’s life over his own. The award honoured his act of valour.
Vaka Laxmi Pragnika
A 7-year-old chess prodigy from Surat, Gujarat, she created history by winning the Under-7 World School Chess Championship. She achieved a score of 9/9 in the tournament. Already a multiple-time state champion, her tactical acumen has put her on the global map. She was awarded for her dominance and achievement in the field of sports.
Vishwanath Karthikeya Padakanti
A young mountaineer from Telangana, Vishwanath, 16, has successfully completed the ‘Seven Summits’ challenge. This involves scaling the highest mountains on each of the seven continents. He is one of the few Indians to achieve this milestone. The award recognised his adventurous spirit.
Yogita Mandavi
A judoka from Chhattisgarh, Yogita, 14, has demonstrated exceptional skill and discipline in martial arts. She has consistently performed at high levels in state and national competitions, establishing herself as a rising star in Judo. Her dedication to the sport has brought recognition to her state and inspired young athletes in her region. She has been honoured for her promise in the field of sports.
Yogita Mandavi
A judoka from Chhattisgarh, Yogita, 14, has demonstrated exceptional skill and discipline in martial arts. She has consistently performed at high levels in state and national competitions, establishing herself as a rising star in Judo. Her dedication to the sport has brought recognition to her state and inspired young athletes in her region. She has been honoured for her promise in the field of sports.