Ayaan, Risheek from J&K among 17 awarded Bal Puraskar by President Murmu

New Delhi, Dec 26: Twelve-year-old Ayaan Sajad from south Kashmir’s Anantnag district and Risheek Kumar from Samba district of Jammu were among 17 students awarded the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Thursday.

The award ceremony was a proud moment for Ayaan and Risheek and their families.

In the presence of distinguished dignitaries and fellow awardees, Ayaan and Risheek received the honour from the President of India, who praised the young achievers for their contribution to the nation’s progress.

President of India, Droupadi Murmu conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on 17 children in seven categories for their exceptional achievements.

Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated all award winners and said that the entire country and the society were proud of them.

She told the children that they had done extraordinary work, achieved amazing accomplishments, had limitless capabilities, and possessed incomparable qualities.

“You have set an example for the children of the country,” President Murmu said.  “Providing opportunities and recognising children’s talents has been a part of our tradition.”

She emphasised that this tradition should be strengthened further.

“In the year 2047 when we will celebrate the centenary of India’s independence, these award winners will be enlightened citizens of the country. Such talented boys and girls will become the builders of a developed India,” the President said.

The 12-year-old singer Ayaan has already become an internet sensation after his Kashmiri songs went viral on social media gaining him millions of views.

His songs continue to trend in the Valley.

He became an internet sensation with his rendition of the Kashmiri song ‘Be Dard Dadi Chane,’ which garnered millions of views on social media platforms.

Speaking to the media after receiving the award, Ayaan expressed his gratitude and shared his vision for the future.

“This award is a dream come true for me. It will motivate me to work harder to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of J&K through my art. I dedicate this recognition to my parents, mentors, and all those who believed in me and encouraged me to follow my passion. I hope my journey inspires other young artists to pursue their dreams and never give up,” he said.

Risheek Kumar from Samba also brought laurels to J&K by receiving the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar from President Droupadi Murmu for his pioneering work in cyber security.