Vaibhav Suryavanshi Honoured with Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Vaibhav Suryavanshi received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar from President Droupadi Murmu.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 14-year-old cricket prodigy, exchanged his bat for a national honor on Friday as President Droupadi Murmu presented him with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

This accolade is India’s foremost civilian award for children, recognizing excellence in sports, bravery, innovation, science, social service, and culture. Among 20 young achievers feted, Suryavanshi’s attendance meant missing Bihar’s Vijay Hazare Trophy match—a worthwhile sacrifice for this rare distinction following his spectacular 190-run innings days earlier.

Addressing the awardees, President Murmu commended their inspiring efforts. “Your achievements inspire the entire country. Every child honoured today is equally important and valued,” she said. “It is because of such gifted children that India continues to shine on the global stage.”

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She added that while only a few names could be highlighted due to time constraints, every recipient had made notable contributions in their respective fields, acknowledging the crucial support of parents and families.

Suryavanshi is now unlikely to appear further in the Vijay Hazare Trophy this season. His priorities shift toward international cricket, with the talented batter set to join the India Under-19 squad ahead of the U19 World Cup beginning January 15.