File photo of President Pranab Mukherjee.
President Pranab Mukherjee today said children should be encouraged to "dream big" about the future of the country and explore their potential to the full.
In his message to the Ministry of Women and Child Development on the eve of Children's Day, Mr Mukherjee said the future of the country depended on children.
He said by providing adequate opportunity and guidance, they have immense potential to contribute to society and humanity.
"Children should have the opportunity to receive education, acquire comprehensive knowledge and develop in a child-friendly environment so that they turn into good human beings with a mission in life.
"We should encourage children to dream big about the future of our nation and explore their potential to the full," he said.
He complimented the ministry by celebrating the day by conferring the 'National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement, 2015', 'Rajiv Gandhi Manav Seva Award, 2015' and 'National Award for Child Welfare, 2014'.
The National Child Awards ceremony is held every year in recognition of achievements of children and services of individuals and institutions working for the welfare of children as well as to pay tribute to the memory of late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
"These awards are meant to encourage children with exceptional achievements and inspire other children to follow in their steps. The awards celebrate the efforts of those individuals and institutions which have made a transformative difference in society through their commitment and dedication to children," he said.