Who is Ajay Raj, who was awarded the National Child Award for saving his father from a crocodile attack

This week in New Delhi, 20 children from 18 states and union territories received the Prime Minister’s National Children’s Award 2025.

The awards recognize achievement in six categories – bravery, social service, environment, sports, arts and culture, and science and technology.

The President said the award winners had shown “commitment, skill and responsibility” and expressed hope that their work would encourage other children to take up socially meaningful goals.

Among those honored for bravery was 10-year-old Ajay Raj from Rajasthan’s Dholpur district. He had rescued his father near a river in the Chambal region earlier this year.

Ajay Raj’s bravery in Dholpur river incident

According to reports published by Rajasthan Patrika, Ajay and his father had gone to the river to get water when a crocodile came out and grabbed his father’s leg.

The animal started pulling him towards the river.

Eyewitnesses told local newspapers that Ajay picked up a stick and hit it repeatedly at the crocodile while shouting for help. The blows forced the animal to loosen its grip, allowing his father to break free.

After some time the villagers arrived and helped both of them to come back safely.

Ajay’s father suffered injuries but is recovering. The child was not injured.

Hair Awards 2025 and official recognition

The news of the incident spread throughout the district within a few days. Local residents and officials called for the boy to be recognized for his actions. That recommendation later turned into a national honour.

Security warning for Chambal river area

Authorities in the Chambal belt have issued fresh advisories, urging residents to remain vigilant along river banks, especially during the monsoon season, when crocodile movement increases.

The local administration has asked villagers to avoid collecting water alone from known crocodile habitats and immediately report any sighting.

The Prime Minister’s National Children’s Award is presented annually to children under the age of 18 years for exceptional achievement and courage.

This year’s list included recipients from urban centers and remote districts alike, with work ranging from scientific research to environmental action and public service.

Officials said the diversity of the award winners reflects the range of ways young people across the country are contributing.