In the main Republic Day function held in Raipur, Governor Biswabhushan Harichandan honoured four children of State with the State Bravery Award for their exceptional courage and intelligence. Each of these children received an award of Rs 25,000 along with a citation. The awardees are Arnav Singh, Om Upadhyay, Premchand Sahu, and Lokesh Kumar Sahu. Arnav Singh (16 years old), a resident of Lakshmipur in Surguja district, demonstrated bravery on November 12, 2023. While returning from Ambikapur with his family after Diwali puja, they noticed a massive fire near the Sadbahar Barrier. Arnav immediately called the emergency number 112.

 

Within 15 minutes, the police station in charge and administrative officers arrivedat the scene. Arnav, along with the administration, woke up and evacuated three people and a watchman sleeping nearby, ensuring their safety. Om Upadhyay (16 years old), a disabled resident of Kripal Nagar Bhilai in Durg district, exhibited bravery on December 20, 2023. While playing with small children near his house, Om noticed aggressive dogs approaching the children. Despite his disability, Om attempted to drive the dogs away, but one dog became aggressive and ran towards the children. Om risked his life, saved the child, and chased away the aggressive dog. Although the dog bit Om’s hand, he did not stop until the dog was out of the lane, ensuring the safety of the children.

 

Premchand Sahu (9 years old) and Lokesh Kumar Sahu, Residents of Rampur Danganiya in Raipur district, exhibited bravery on March 7, 2023. While bathing in Dangania Pond with friends Lokesh Kumar Sahu, Pushpendra Sahu, and Priyanshu Sahu, 9-year-old Pushpendra slipped and began to drown. Lokesh Kumar Sahu and Premchand Sahu displayed courage and wisdom, risking their own lives to save Pushpendra, and ensuring the child’s safety.