Hardeep Singh Dhull won the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement, 2008, for his exceptional performance in sports.

A student of class VIII from Bhavan Vidyalaya, Chandigrah, he received the award from Congress president Sonia Gandhi at a special ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on February 5.

The ceremony was organised by the Government of India, Ministry of Women and Child Development, headed by Renuka Choudhary. Hardeep has received a cash prize of Rs 10,000, a silver medal, a certificate and a citation. Hardeep excelled in skating, athletics, hockey, karate, and roll ball.

The award is given to one student of every state/UT every year to give recognition to the exceptional capabilities and achievements of students in different fields.

Attributing his success to his parents, he said: “My parents are my motivational force and they are the ones who have always supported me. They have taken my failures in a positive stride and have taught me the same.”

Hardeep has participated in many state and national-level tournaments and has achieved top positions, medals and prizes for his outstanding performances.

Notable among these are, two gold and a bronze medal in the 44th National Roller Skating Championship held in May 2007 where he was declared the National Champion in the under-12 years age group.