The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed Mizoram government to decorate the bravery of F Lalchhandama at its earliest convenience. Aizawl’s 17-year old braveheart Lalchhandama was selected to receive Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak posthumously.
In January the President of India has approved the conferment of Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards – 2017 for 44 persons which include Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak to seven persons, Jeevan Raksha Padak to 24 persons, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak to 13 and Jeevan Raksha Padak to 24 persons.
Lalchhandama, nicknamed Dadama on the recommendation of the State Child Welfare Commission of Mizoram was awarded 2017 National Bravery Award posthumously on Republic Day.
On May 2017, F Lalchhandama and his friends went swimming at Tlawng river. While they were getting ready to return, one of their friends C Lalremkima slipped off a mossy rock losing his balance and fell into the river. He was not able to swim at that point and cried for help. Lalchhandama and another friend Lalmuansanga instantly jumped into the river trying to rescue their drowning friend. Lalremkima caught hold of Lalmuansanga’s neck making him unable to breathe.
Lalchhanmdama, out of courage freed Lalmuansanga and somehow managed to drag him to the shore. Lalchhandama went straight back into the river trying to rescue his friend. Despite his brave efforts, his second attempt to rescue his drowning friend ended tragically, his friend drowned and Lalchhandama died trying to save him.
Jeevan Raksha Padak series of awards are given to a person for the meritorious act of humane nature in saving the life of a person. The award is given in three categories, namely, Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak and Jeevan Raksha Padak. Persons of either sex in all walks of life are eligible for these awards. The award can also be conferred posthumously.
The decoration of the award includes a medal, a certificate signed by the Home Minister and lump sum monetary allowance. It is presented to the awardee in due course by the respective state government to which the awardee belongs.
The Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak is to reward saving lives from drowning, fire, or mine accidents. It is awarded; “for conspicuous courage under circumstances of very great danger to the life of the rescue by the Government of India. Established on 30 September 1961, the award was originally called the Jeevan Raksha Padak.