“Life's aspirations come in the guise of children.” - Rabindranath Tagore
While the well-being of our children is imperative for national development, it should be deemed as an end in itself.
It is the responsibility of the country to provide adequate opportunity and support for the holistic growth and development of children as mandated by the Constitution of India.
The National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement was instituted in 1996 to give recognition to children with exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements in the fields of innovation, scholastic achievements, social service, arts & culture and sports. A medal and a cash prize are given to each awardee. From the year 2018, the award has been renamed as the Bal Shakti Puraskar and achievements of children in the field of bravery are also acknowledged.
The National Child Welfare Awards were instituted in 1979 to give recognition to those who have made outstanding contributions in the fields of Child Development, Child Protection and Child Welfare. It is important to recognize such individuals and institutions as they help complement the efforts of the Government. From the year 2018, the award has been renamed as Bal Kalyan Puraskar. This Award is given in two categories - Individual and Institution. Three awards are given in each of these two categories along with cash prizes.
