AI Generated Summary
- Amid the tension and uncertainty that marked Operation Sindoor in Punjab’s border belt, a simple act of kindness by a young boy from Ferozepur quietly emerged as a story of courage and compassion.
- Excited about the upcoming ceremony, he shared that he has already bought new clothes and is eagerly looking forward to meeting the President and the Prime Minister.
- I used to serve them cold water and milk every day,” he said, adding that his dream is to serve the nation in uniform.
Amid the tension and uncertainty that marked Operation Sindoor in Punjab’s border belt, a simple act of kindness by a young boy from Ferozepur quietly emerged as a story of courage and compassion.
When armed forces personnel were deployed in and around Tarawali village and drones hovered overhead, 10-year-old Shavan Singh, a Class IV student, found his own way to contribute. As soldiers camped in fields near his home, Shavan began visiting them daily, carrying water, lassi, milk and tea. What started as a child’s instinctive gesture soon became a source of comfort for the jawans stationed there.
Shavan’s actions did not go unnoticed. Deeply moved by his dedication and patriotic spirit, the Army’s Golden Arrow Division honoured him with the title of “Youngest Civil Warrior” and announced sponsorship of his education. Western Army Commander Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar personally felicitated the young boy, underlining the enduring bond between the Army and local communities in border areas.
The recognition has now reached the national stage. Shavan has been selected for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, one of the country’s highest civilian honours for children. The award was presented to him by Droupadi Murmu on December 26th.
Recalling those days, Shavan’s father Sona Singh said soldiers had pitched camp in their agricultural fields during the operation. “From the very first day, Shavan insisted on serving them. He would take refreshments and spend time talking to them. We never imagined this would lead to such an honour,” he said.
For Shavan, the experience left a lasting impression. “I loved being around the soldiers. I used to serve them cold water and milk every day,” he said, adding that his dream is to serve the nation in uniform. Excited about the upcoming ceremony, he shared that he has already bought new clothes and is eagerly looking forward to meeting the President and the Prime Minister.
His mother, Santosh Rani, said the jawans had become like friends to her son. “They appreciated what he did and encouraged him. He dreams of becoming a soldier one day,” she said, expressing gratitude to the Army for recommending his name for the prestigious award.
In a time marked by conflict and vigilance, Shavan Singh’s quiet service stands as a reminder that patriotism often reveals itself in the smallest, most heartfelt acts.
