Nanded District, MAHARASHTRA :

However hard Ajaj Nadaf (20) may try to couch it, disappointment lurks on his face as he displays his 2017 National Bravery Award as well as numerous mementoes, certificates and letters of appreciation for his heroic courage in saving two people from drowning.

Today, Ajaj works as a loader at a banana farm to sustain his family, earning Rs 300 a day.

Ajaj lives with his parents and older brother. They work as labourers and live in extreme poverty.

As a 16-year-old, Ajaj had risked his own life while pulling out a woman and a 12-year-old girl who had fallen into the river in his remote village in Nanded district.

For his bravery, he was bestowed with the National Bravery Award by President Ramnath Kovind and a cash prize of Rs 20,000.

Four years since his derring-do, promises by the authorities of a job and a house, among others, have fallen by the wayside.

When contacted, the Nanded district collector promised all the help he can extend and also initiated the process to fulfil the promises made to the National Bravery awardee.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> Videos> City> Mumbai / August 11th, 2021