Para athletes Shivani and Jyoti honoured with Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Para athletes Shivani from Andhra Pradesh and Jyoti from Haryana were honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi. Both were trained by the Aditya Mehta Foundation and recognised for their sporting excellence

Hyderabad: In a proud moment for Indian para-sports, Shivani from Andhra Pradesh and Jyoti from Haryana were conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by the President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held in New Delhi.

The honour recognises their outstanding sporting achievements, resilience and discipline at a young age. Shivani has excelled in javelin throw and shot put, while Jyoti has shown versatility in discus throw, shot put and javelin throw, consistently delivering strong performances at national and international platforms. It is the highest civilian award in the children’s category.

---

Both athletes were identified, scouted and nurtured from the grassroots level by the Aditya Mehta Foundation, undergoing structured, long-term training and holistic development over the past four years. Their journey reflects perseverance, focus and excellence both on and off the field.

Their achievement stands as a reminder of how early identification, sustained mentorship and opportunity can shape young talent and elevate Indian para-sports on the national stage.