Mawryngkneng (Meghalaya): 12-year-old Everbloom K Nongrum of Meghalaya was awarded the Jeevan Raksha Padak Award, 2019 for his act of bravery in saving two children from drowning at Mawryngkneng village, last year. East Khasi Hills deputy commissioner, Isawanda Laloo presented the award to him.
The award, Jeevan Raksha Padak is given by the President of India through the Ministry of Home Affairs for persons exhibiting meritorious acts of human nature in saving the lives in cases like drowning in water, accidents, fire incidents, electrocution, natural calamities, rescue operation in mines etc.
Everbloom, a sixth standard student from Mawryngkneng Higher Secondary School, saved the lives of children in two different incidents. On July 2019, a student of standard three, Davin Sohtun fell into the hole of depth 3 meters and width 4×4 meter filled with water as it was left uncovered for nearly six months without fencing while playing at a construction site. When everyone screamed for help, Everbloom rushed to the spot and jumped into the hole to save the life of Sohtun. He also saved Sohtun's friend, who also slipped down from the same hole after a few days.
The holes were later covered by the concerned authorities.
The award comprises of a medal, a small replica of the medal, a certificate signed by the Union Home Minister and a cheque of Rs.1,00,000. Everbloom's parents were also present with him on the day of felicitation.
The Deputy Commissioner thanked Everbloom K Nongrum for his act of bravery at such a young age and expressed her wish that he will continue to be an inspiration for many.