Himachal boy gets Rs 1 lakh reward for saving schoolmates

Chief minister Virbhadra Singh on Monday announced a sum of Rs 1 lakh for a Class-8 boy, who saved the lives of 15 schoolchildren by averting a major bus tragedy last year.

Chief minister Virbhadra Singh on Monday announced a sum of Rs 1 lakh for a Class-8 boy, who saved the lives of 15 schoolchildren by averting a major bus tragedy last year.

Chief minister Virbhadra Singh presenting the prize money to Praful Sharma of Sarkaghat, Shimla, on Monday. (HT Photo)

Praful Sharma, a student of Lords Convent School, Sarkaghat, and his schoolmates were returning from an educational turn in Dharamshala, when they stopped for a short break near Dharampur in Mandi.

The driver had alighted from the bus and suddenly, the bus started moving downhill into a ditch. Praful, who was on the bus, rushed and jumped into the driver’s seat and applied the breaks, successfully stopping the bus. His prompt action and presence of life saved the lives of 15 students.

Praful was conferred the national bravery award for his feat.

On Monday, Praful called on the chief minister, who lauded his courage and announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh for him.