New Delhi, Jan 24 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met and interacted with the winners of the "Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2019" and said that the children are an inspiration for others.

"The Prime Minister appreciated and congratulated the award winners for their achievements. He said that these awards offer an opportunity for recognition of talented children, and serve as inspiration for others like them," it said in a statement.

Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi, along with the Minister of State Virendra Singh, were also present with the Prime Minister, who urged the extra-ordinarily gifted children to stay connected with the nature.

"The children explained in detail their special achievements and shared their inspirational stories. Modi also shared some light and informal moments with the children who also requested him for autographs," it added.

The Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awards were given away on Tuesday by President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Organised by the WCD Ministry, the awards were given in two categories: Bal Shakti Puraskar to individuals, which also included Bravery awards, and Bal Kalyan Puraskar to institutions/ individuals working for children.