It was a special day for more than 20 kids in India yesterday. They were awarded the National Bravery Awards in recognition of their daring deeds against the odds.

Eight girls and 13 boys received India’s 2009 National Bravery Awards for their outstanding deeds of bravery and meritorious acts.

[Manmohan Singh, Indian Prime Minister]: (Hindi, male)
"I salute your acts of bravery and we are proud of you."

The coveted Bharat Award was given to a 13-year-old for saving around 60 people in a stampede at a temple.

One girl was applauded for her alertness in preventing a bomb explosion in a marketplace and another saved five persons from drowning.

Three girls from West Bengal revolted against the prevailing social evil of child marriage. They refused to get married at an early age and wanted to continue their studies.

The Indian Council for Child Welfare, a government organization, shortlists the children for these awards.