
New Delhi, December 27, 2025: In a moving tribute to the extraordinary potential of India’s youth, the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) has once again shone a spotlight on children who have displayed courage and selflessness far beyond their years. Among the remarkable awardees honored this year are two young boys whose stories have touched the heart of the nation: one who supported those protecting our borders, and an orphan who became a guardian for a child in need.
In the rugged terrains where Indian security forces maintain a constant vigil, a young boy became a symbol of civil-military harmony. Living in a high-altitude border region, this young awardee took it upon himself to provide comfort to the troops stationed nearby.
During harsh weather conditions, he began offering tea and snacks to the soldiers on duty. While the act itself might seem simple, its impact was profound. For the troops operating in isolated and grueling environments, this child’s consistent gesture represented the warmth of the nation they serve.
The government recognized his efforts not just for the service provided, but for his initiative and spirit of patriotism. His actions remind us that age is no barrier to contributing to the morale of the country’s defenders.
Perhaps one of the most poignant stories from this year’s recipient list is that of a young orphan who displayed an incredible depth of empathy. Having lost his own parents, he found himself in a position where most would be seeking care for themselves. Instead, he became a caregiver for a child with special needs.
Despite his own hardships and the lack of a traditional support system, he dedicated his daily life to ensuring the well-being, safety, and happiness of a younger child who required constant assistance. His story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.
By honoring him, the PMRBP highlights the values of social service and humanitarianism. His journey from a place of personal loss to becoming a pillar of support for someone more vulnerable is a masterclass in resilience and compassion.
The PMRBP is India’s highest civilian honor for children aged 5 to 18. Each year, the President of India confers these awards upon children who have achieved exceptional feats across several categories:
These awards serve a dual purpose. First, they provide much-needed recognition and a platform for young achievers to continue their journey. Second, they serve as an inspiration for millions of children across India.
The stories of the “Tea-offering Boy” and the “Young Caregiver” prove that heroism doesn’t always require a cape or a grand stage—sometimes, it is found in a hot cup of tea on a cold mountain or in the patient hands of a child looking after another.