Doing one's work silently, honestly is bravery: PM

New Delhi, Jan 24 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today exhorted children to show bravery and valour by inculcating honesty, moral values in their lives and said this would help in improving the society at large.

Presenting the National Awards for Bravery 2006 to 24 children, the Prime Minister lauded the children for showing exemplary courage and bravery which has won the hearts of people of the country.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's saying that bravery is not in the body but in the heart, soul and mind, Dr Singh said bravery was of many kind which include fighting superstitions and social evils.

''The amount of bravery required for fire fighting, catching thief and saving drowning people is same as that required for taking forward the moral principles in lives. Leading an ordinary, simple and principled life in today's world is also a brave act. Doing ones work silently and honestly is also brave,'' he said.

He told the bravehearts that they would face many challenges later in their lives and to face them they would be required to exhibit the same kind of courage and bravery for which they are being awarded today.

Pointing out that honesty, morality and hardwork was the base for courage and bravery, he said all-these qualities are required to build a better society.

The Prime Minister hoped that the national bravery awards would inspire children to do service to the nation. He said children had played a crucial role in the national struggle for freedom.

Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had made a 'Wanar Sena' which was aimed at making children a part of the freedom struggle.

UNI