New Delhi: Sarwan, a 10-year-old boy from Punjab’s Ferozepur, has been honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for showing exceptional courage and a spirit of service during Operation Sindoor.
The award was presented to him by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held in Delhi on the occasion of National Veer Bal Diwas.
PM Modi will also interact with Sarwan and other award recipients during the event.
Sarwan had selflessly helped Indian Army personnel deployed along the Indo-Pak border in Ferozepur during Operation Sindoor. Despite his young age, he assisted the soldiers in difficult conditions by supplying them with water, milk, lassi, tea and food.
Recalling the experience, Sarwan said that when Operation Sindoor against Pakistan began and Army personnel arrived in his village, he felt it was his duty to serve them. “I used to carry milk, tea, buttermilk and ice for them. I am very happy to receive this award. I never even dreamed of it,” he said.
Earlier, the Indian Army had felicitated Sarwan by declaring him the ‘Youngest Citizen Warrior’ and announced that it would bear the entire cost of his education. He was also honoured at a ceremony at Ferozepur Cantonment by Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command.
Army officials said Sarwan’s inspiring act of courage and compassion has been widely appreciated across the country, reflecting the values of service and patriotism at a very young age.
