On the occasion of Veer Baal Diwas, President Droupadi Murmu will confer the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar in New Delhi, honouring children whose achievements reflect courage, excellence, and service to society across India.
Veer Baal Diwas this year brings together national leadership, young awardees, educators, and communities to celebrate the power of youth and the enduring legacy of bravery in India’s history. The ceremony recognises children who have demonstrated exceptional ability and character in diverse fields, while also reaffirming the nation’s commitment to nurturing values of courage, compassion, and responsibility among its youngest citizens. Alongside the awards ceremony, a national-level programme will be held at Bharat Mandapam, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address children and youth, underscoring the importance of inspiration, mentorship, and purpose in shaping the future generation.
Honouring Young Excellence Through the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar stands as one of India’s highest civilian honours for children, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals under the age of 18. This year, 20 children from 18 states and union territories have been selected, reflecting the geographic and cultural diversity of the nation. Their accomplishments span fields such as bravery, sports, social service, science and technology, innovation, art and culture, and environmental stewardship. Each awardee represents not only personal excellence but also the potential of youth to create meaningful change within their communities.
The awards ceremony on Veer Baal Diwas symbolises national appreciation for perseverance and selfless action. By placing children at the centre of the celebration, the event sends a strong message that age is no barrier to leadership or impact. The presence of the Prime Minister at the national programme further elevates the occasion, providing young achievers with a platform where their stories can inspire peers across the country. The interaction between national leaders and awardees highlights a shared commitment to empowering youth through recognition, opportunity, and encouragement.
Beyond the ceremony itself, the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar plays a broader role in shaping social attitudes. It challenges conventional ideas about achievement by valuing courage and service alongside academic or athletic success. Children honoured for bravery often demonstrate extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity, while those recognised for social service and innovation showcase empathy and creativity in addressing real-world problems. Collectively, the awardees embody values that extend beyond individual success, reinforcing the idea that progress is rooted in collective responsibility and ethical action.
Veer Baal Diwas and the Legacy of the Sahibzades
Veer Baal Diwas is observed to honour the bravery and supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzades, Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the young sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Their story occupies a revered place in Indian history, symbolising unwavering faith, courage, and moral strength even in the face of immense hardship. By dedicating a national day to their memory, India acknowledges the profound role that youthful courage has played in shaping the nation’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
The annual observance of Veer Baal Diwas was announced in January 2022 during the Prakash Purab of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Since then, it has grown into a nationwide movement aimed at educating citizens, especially children, about the sacrifices made by young heroes in India’s past. The day serves as a reminder that courage and conviction are not limited by age, and that even the youngest individuals can stand firm for principles of justice and truth.
To mark the occasion, the government is organising participative programmes across the country. These activities are designed to engage children and communities in meaningful ways, fostering awareness and reflection through storytelling sessions, recitations, poster-making, and essay-writing competitions. Schools, child care institutions, anganwadi centres, and other educational platforms are hosting events that blend learning with creativity, ensuring that historical narratives are communicated in accessible and engaging formats.
These programmes also serve an important educational purpose by linking history with contemporary values. By learning about the Sahibzades and other young heroes, children are encouraged to reflect on themes of resilience, sacrifice, and ethical decision-making. The activities promote dialogue between generations, allowing educators, parents, and students to collectively explore the relevance of historical courage in modern life. In doing so, Veer Baal Diwas becomes not just a commemoration but a living tradition that shapes character and civic consciousness.
The convergence of Veer Baal Diwas celebrations with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar ceremony creates a powerful narrative arc. On one hand, the nation remembers the sacrifices of young martyrs who stood firm in the face of tyranny. On the other, it celebrates contemporary children who exemplify courage, talent, and service in today’s context. Together, these elements reinforce a shared understanding that the spirit of bravery is timeless, evolving across generations while remaining rooted in enduring values.
