Shillong, Dec 26: In a proud moment for Meghalaya, Kisen Wanniang from South West Khasi Hills district has been conferred with the prestigious ‘Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar’ for his exceptional valour and bravery. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award to Kisen Wanniang, along with 16 other children at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Thursday.
Kisen Wanniang’s selfless act of saving four children from drowning has earned him this prestigious recognition. His bravery and quick thinking have inspired many, and this award is a testament to his remarkable courage.
The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is India’s highest civilian honour for children, awarded annually by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. The award recognizes exceptional achievements in various fields, including bravery, innovation, scholastic achievements, and social service.
This year’s awardees were selected from 14 different states and Union territories, and were honoured for their outstanding contributions in categories such as art and culture, bravery, innovation, and social service.
Wanniang saves 4 children in exceptional act of bravery
15-year-old Kisen Wanniang showed extraordinary bravery and selflessness by saving four children from drowning in the Maweitksar River in Mawlangwir, South West Khasi Hills District, on May 25, 2024.
The incident occurred at approximately 10 AM when four children—Gidian Thongni (9), Naphisadona Thongni (11), Haphibansuk Thongni (10), and Carefully Thongni (12)—were swimming in the river. Kisen Wanniang, who was nearby washing clothes, heard their cries for help and immediately responded, diving into the river to save three of them.
Bystanders also assisted by using a cloth to pull one child to safety, while Wanniang managed to bring the other children to the riverbank. Gidian was transported to Mawkyrwat Civil Hospital for further medical treatment, while the other three children were reported to be in stable condition.
The Mawlangwir Dorbar Shnong and the family members of the four children have commended Kisen Wanniang, hailing him as a hero for his life-saving actions.
