India honoured the courage of young Vyoma Priya by conferring on her the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar under the bravery category. The award was accepted on her behalf by her mother, Archana Sivaramakrishnan, whose words moved the entire nation.
The Incident That Defined Courage
Vyoma Priya was just eight years old when the tragic incident occurred at the children’s park inside her apartment complex. A slide in the park had been installed above a damaged underground electric cable. Unknown to anyone, the slide became electrified due to the fault. While children were playing, a six-year-old boy climbed onto the slide and suddenly collapsed after receiving a powerful electric shock.
Vyoma Priya’s Selfless Act
Seeing the younger child fall, Vyoma Priya did not hesitate for a moment. She rushed forward to rescue him, unaware of the danger. As she touched the slide, she too was caught in the electric current. Despite her young age, her instinct was not to run away but to help someone in distress. Her brave attempt ultimately cost her life, but it saved another.
A Mother’s Words That Touched the Nation
While accepting the award, Archana Sivaramakrishnan said,
“I am receiving the bravery award on behalf of our daughter, Vyoma Priya. She was only eight years old when she tried to save a six-year-old boy. It is a bittersweet moment for us. We wish she could have been here to receive this award herself.”
Her statement reflected both immense pride and immeasurable loss, capturing the emotional weight behind the honour.
Why Vyoma Priya Was Awarded
Vyoma Priya was recognised for showing extraordinary courage, presence of mind, and selflessness far beyond her age. Her actions embodied the true spirit of bravery, where saving another life became more important than personal safety. This is the very essence of the Bal Puraskar bravery category.
Significance of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is India’s highest civilian honour for children aged 5 to 18 years. It recognises exceptional acts of bravery and excellence across multiple fields. Vyoma Priya’s recognition stands as a reminder that heroism is not defined by age, strength, or training, but by courage and compassion.
A Wake-Up Call on Safety and Responsibility
Beyond honouring bravery, this incident also highlights the urgent need for proper safety checks in residential spaces, especially areas meant for children. Faulty infrastructure and negligence can turn everyday play areas into life-threatening zones.
An Eternal Inspiration
Vyoma Priya’s story will continue to inspire generations. Her courage reflects the purest form of humanity, where a child’s instinct to help became an act of national significance. Though she is no longer present, her bravery lives on in the hearts of millions.
Conclusion
Vyoma Priya’s Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is not just an award, but a tribute to courage, compassion, and sacrifice. As her mother accepted the honour on her behalf, the nation stood reminded that true heroes sometimes come in the smallest forms. Vyoma Priya’s legacy will forever define what it truly means to be brave.
