The Brave Youth of India

                The occasion of Republic Day, one that we very recently witnessed, holds a special place in the hearts of all Indians. We remember it for the famous Parade, the patriotic songs, and the spirit of celebration in the air. An aspect of the celebrations that we often forget to pay adequate heed to, however, is the recognition of the brave youth of our nation, who often sacrifice not only their health but also their lives for the purpose of saving the lives of others. I am referring to the awards given out by the President of India to the brave boys and girls of our nation every year for meritorious acts of bravery against all odds. These awards have been given out to children ever since our first Prime Minister Jawarharlal Nehru, fondly called Chacha Nehru by children, did so in 1957. This year twenty four children, eight girls and sixteen boys, were awarded bravery awards by President Shri Pranab Mukherjee. Five awards did, sadly, have to be given posthumously to the valiant children who gave their lives while helping others.

Some of the brave children include Om Prakash Yadav, an eleven year old who pulled children out of a burning van hurting himself extensively, Prasannta Shadilya, another eleven year old who saved her parents from robbers by throwing chilli powder in their eyes, Mittal Patadiya, a twelve year old who saved her mother from assailants by beating them up even as one stabbed her in the neck, Uma Shankar a twelve year old who saved six injured people from a car crash, and Dungar Singh, a child who at the tender age of seven jumped in a fire to save his disabled older brother. These stories are truly inspiring, especially knowing that the ones behind them are all children, some even younger than myself. The children who received awards were all between sixteen and seven, and that is what gives me confidence in the youth of our nation and convinces me that even at our ages we can make a difference.

-Malak Khan Grade 8B