On December 26, 2024, India commemorated Veer Bal Diwas, a day dedicated to honoring the valor and sacrifice of the young Sahibzadas—Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This day not only pays tribute to their supreme sacrifice but also serves as an occasion to recognize the exceptional achievements of the nation’s youth through the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP).
Veer Bal Diwas: A Tribute to Young Martyrs
Veer Bal Diwas is observed annually on December 26 to remember the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s younger sons, who were executed in 1704 for refusing to renounce their faith. Their unwavering commitment to their principles, even in the face of death, stands as a testament to courage and righteousness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the observance of Veer Bal Diwas to honor their legacy and inspire future generations.
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024
In conjunction with Veer Bal Diwas, the Ministry of Women and Child Development organized a ceremony at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, where President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 17 distinguished children from 14 states and union territories. This prestigious award acknowledges exceptional achievements in various categories, including art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and environmental conservation.
Honoring the Young Achievers
The awardees, comprising seven boys and ten girls, have demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication in their respective fields. Each recipient was presented with a medal, a certificate, and a citation booklet, symbolizing the nation’s recognition of their contributions. The ceremony was attended by approximately 3,500 children, featuring cultural performances that showcased India’s rich heritage and underscored the importance of nurturing young talent.
Launch of ‘Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan’
On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan,’ a nationwide initiative aimed at improving nutritional outcomes and well-being in rural areas. The program focuses on strengthening the implementation of nutrition-related services and ensuring active community participation to combat malnutrition.
Nationwide Activities and Engagements
To mark Veer Bal Diwas, various educational and creative activities were organized across the country. Schools, child protection agencies, and Anganwadi centers conducted storytelling sessions, creative writing competitions, and poster-making activities to engage children and instill values of courage and patriotism. Online competitions, including interactive quizzes, were hosted on platforms like MyGov and MyBharat, encouraging widespread participation and fostering a sense of national pride among the youth.
Significance of the Observance
The combined celebration of Veer Bal Diwas and the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar underscores the government’s commitment to honoring historical sacrifices while promoting excellence among today’s youth. By remembering the bravery of the Sahibzadas and recognizing the achievements of young Indians, the nation aims to inspire future generations to uphold values of courage, integrity, and service to society.
As India looks to the future, initiatives like the ‘Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan’ and the acknowledgment of young achievers through the PMRBP highlight a concerted effort to build a resilient and prosperous society, rooted in the rich cultural and moral heritage of the past.
The stories of the young martyrs and the accomplishments of today’s youth serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the enduring strength and potential that lies within the nation’s younger generations.
