Post by : Meena Ariff

In a powerful reminder that courage knows no age, a 10-year-old boy from Punjab has emerged as a symbol of quiet bravery during one of the most sensitive moments along the India–Pakistan border. Shravan Singh, a resident of Chak Taran Wali village in Ferozepur district, has been honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for his selfless service to Indian Army personnel during Operation Sindoor.

When military tensions escalated in May and troops were deployed at forward locations near his village, fear and uncertainty gripped the border region. Civilians were urged to remain cautious as the possibility of conflict loomed. Amid this tense environment, Shravan, then just a school-going child, chose to act with compassion rather than fear.

As soldiers took positions near his village, Shravan made it a daily habit to help them in small but meaningful ways. Carrying milk, tea, buttermilk, water, and ice under the harsh summer sun, he ensured the soldiers had basic comforts while on duty. His gestures, simple yet consistent, reflected deep empathy and a strong sense of responsibility.

Recalling those days, Shravan later said that he never imagined his actions would lead to national recognition. He explained that when the soldiers arrived, he felt it was his duty to serve them in whatever way he could. The honour, he said, was something he had never even dreamed of.

Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. In response, India carried out coordinated strikes targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan later attempted drone and missile attacks, which were successfully thwarted, followed by precision strikes by Indian forces on select military air bases. Both sides agreed to halt further military action on May 10.

Throughout this volatile period, Shravan continued his daily acts of support despite the risks involved. His courage drew widespread admiration, with leaders and citizens alike praising his determination and sense of service at such a young age.

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar recognises children across seven categories, including bravery, social service, innovation, sports, environment, science and technology, and art and culture. Shravan was selected under the bravery category for his fearless conduct during a dangerous and uncertain situation.

His story stands as a reminder that patriotism is not measured by age or uniform, but by the willingness to stand up and help when it matters most.

#Asia News