Vaibhav Suryavanshi was honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar award today by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, in New Delhi. The 14-year-old was awarded with India's highest civilian honour (aged 5-18) and is handed annually for exceptional achievements in Bravery, Art & Culture, Environment, Innovation, Science & Technology, Social Service, and Sports. The event took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan and for the same reason, Vaibhav also missed Bihar's Vijay Hazare Trophy clash today against Manipur.
Reportedly, he was asked to report to Rashtrapati Bhavan at 7 AM for the ceremony, where the other 19 kids were also honoured for their contributions in their respective fields. "Your achievements inspire the entire nation. Every child honoured today is equally important and valued. It
is because of such talented children that India continues to shine on the global stage.
"Your exceptional talents have been showcased across bravery, art and culture, environment, innovation, science and technology, social service, and sports. Each one of you has done remarkable work. While I may mention only a few due to time constraints, every child honoured today is equally important and respected.
It is because of such gifted children that India is being recognised globally as a chess powerhouse, a moment worthy of applause. Today, their parents have been honoured. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and offer prayers for peace to the departed souls. Their bravery will continue to inspire children across the nation," Droupadi Murmu said in her speech during the award ceremony.