11-year-old Mizoram boy posthumously honoured with Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak

Aizawl, 31 Aug (Zoram News) : Eleven-year-old boy from Mizoram, Anthony Vanmawia, has been posthumously awarded the prestigious Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak for his heroic sacrifice in saving his younger brother from drowning.

Anthony, a resident of Tuirial Tlangveng on the eastern outskirts of Aizawl, is among 31 bravehearts selected for the 2023 edition of the Jeevan Raksha Padak series of awards across India. He is one of three to receive the Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak posthumously, with another recipient being Melody Lalremruati, also from Mizoram.

The tragic incident occurred on April 17, 2023, when Anthony, his younger brother, and a group of friends ventured to the Tuirial River for a swim to escape the scorching heat. During their swim, Anthony's younger brother became trapped in a deep section of the river where sand had been mechanically excavated.

Without a moment's hesitation, Anthony leapt into action, managing to push his brother towards the riverbank. Tragically, while his brother was saved, Anthony was unable to extricate himself and drowned as his brother and others watched helplessly.

In a solemn ceremony at the DC office conference hall on Friday, Aizawl DC Er Lalhriatpuia presented the award to Anthony's grandparents.

The Jeevan Raksha Padak series of awards are bestowed upon individuals who perform meritorious acts of bravery in saving lives. The awards are given in three categories: Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak, and Jeevan Raksha Padak. The Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak comes with a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh.