Nanded (Maharashtra): Ejaz Abdul Rauf Nadaf who won the National Bravery Award from the Central Government in 2018, for having saved the lives of two girls who drowned in a river in Pardi village of Ardhapur Taluka in Nanded district in 2017, is now working as a labourer to make ends meet earning Rs 300 daily. Ejaz, who hails from Nanded district in the state had shot to fame throughout the nation and was studying in Class 9 during the time. He was awarded the 'Bal Shaurya' by President Ram Nath Kovind and was even appreciated by PM Modi and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi. During the time he was showered with several assurances which included the cost of his education being borne by the central government and housing (Gharkula), however, in reality none of the promises were fulfilled.
As his financial situation is poor, he is now supporting his family by doing labour work. Ejaz stays with his mother, father, brother and sister, and is the youngest in the house. Earlier, having hoped that the government would bear his education expenses as assured, Ejaz's father had enrolled him in a reputed college in Nanded in the 11th class science branch. Initially, though the central government had paid Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 to the college. During admission to class 12, financial assistance was not provided. As a result, Ejaz had to cancel the admission as he could not afford the tuition fees and accommodation.
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He then later enrolled in a college in his village, but then as he did not have the money to pay for the examination fees, a year got ruined. He then later passed 12th in 2021, having scored 82% marks. But as his financial situation is poor, he could not pursue further education. At present, Ejaz works as a labourer loading bananas into a truck at Ardhapur.
"There is a river flowing through our farm, one day, two to three girls were washing clothes there, when they slipped in and drowned in the water. On hearing their shrieks for help, I immediately dived in the water and rescued them. For this in 2018 I got a National Bravery Award in Delhi, from President Ram Nath Kovind and PM Narendra Modi. I studied till 10th in Rajabai High School in our village. I got 70 percent marks in 10th class. Then I took admission in science stream in Nanded... But I didn't get the chance as expected. All the money was spent by my parents, as we expected that the government would help. But I didn't get anything. I passed 11th and left the college because of financial troubles. As I couldn't afford to pay for the education, I got enrolled for arts in Dongarkada village. For some days, I had to work in the farms as a labourer and even attend college. I passed 12th with 82 percent marks. I wanted to join the military. But let us see. Whatever job the government offers. I am ready to do it," Ejaz says.
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