Modi honours braveheart children with national awards

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday presented the National Awards for Bravery 2014 to 24 children, saying they inspired others in the society.

In an address on this occasion, the prime minister said the brave deeds of the children were proof that God has kept in each one of us an element that inspires us all to live for others.

Commending the children for their brave and selfless acts, Modi said that not everyone gets a chance to die for others, but everyone has a chance to live for others. "However, there are very few who are actually able to accomplish this," he added.

According to an official release, Modi said the children showed courage in the face of adversity without bothering about the consequences.

The "biggest beauty" of the deeds performed by the brave children was that when faced with a certain situation, they could not stop themselves from acting with courage. "In the process, they had inspired others in society."

Stating that the children will now have a greater responsibility, the prime minister said that "fame and success can be slippery" and the children will have to keep their composure. He urged them to work towards their goals and dreams relentlessly.

Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi was present on this occasion.

The National Bravery Award Scheme was initiated to give due recognition to the children who distinguish themselves by performing outstanding deeds of bravery and meritorious service and inspire other children to emulate their example.