The President of India, Ram NathKovind, presented the National Child Awards today (November 14, 2017) at Rashtrapati Bhavan on the occasion of Children’s Day. The National Child Awards include the National Child Awards for Exceptional Achievement that give recognition to children with exceptional abilities and outstanding achievements in the fields of innovation, scholastic achievements, sports, arts, culture, social service and music; National Awards for Child Welfare to institutions and individuals for their outstanding work in the field of child welfare; and the Rajiv Gandhi ManavSeva Awards to individuals for their outstanding contribution towards service for children. In a message sent to the Ministry of Women and Child Development on the occasion of the Children’s Day, the President said, “Children are the future of our country. We must make every effort to ensure their welfare. We should also make all possible efforts to ensure that children in our country have a safe and happy childhood. Every child is a bud waiting to blossom. By awarding children, we recognise and encourage their talent and potential for nation building. We should also recognise the significant contribution of individuals and institutions who work for causes related to children.” Later in the day, the President celebrated Children’s Day with students/children from various schools/institutions at Rashtrapati Bhavan.