Uttam Tanti, the 11-year-old boy who risked his life to save two persons from drowning in the rising waters of Digholjuli River at Dhankhana village under Thelamara Revenue Circle in Sonitpur district on July 7 last, was felicitated by the Sonitpur District administration on Thursday last (July 11).

The young hero was handed over a financial reward of Rs 5,000 and a bicycle by the Sonitpur Deputy Commissioner Narsing Pawar in presence of a host of other luminaries.

"We are extremely proud of Uttam Tanti. He has exhibited immense courage in such a trying situation and put his own life at risk to save the lives of two other human beings. He is an example for others to emulate," the DC said while addressing the gathering.

The 11-year-old hero on July 7 last had jumped into the river to save a woman identified as Anjali Tanti and her 3-year-old daughter Riya Tanti from drowning.

However, Uttam Tanti was unable to save her second daughter from drowning.

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The young hero, while addressing the gathering after receiving the reward, lamented for not able to save the one-and-a-half-year-old Dipika Tanti and her body was later recovered by the SDRF personnel 3 kilometres away from the place where the boat in which the family was travelling capsized.

"When I grow up, I want to join the Army," Uttam said.

The Sonitpur DC has further said that he will personally look after his schooling and help the Class V student in every possible way.

Meanwhile, Uttam's daring act has found appreciation from various quarters and Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also appreciated him.

In a tweet, the CM said, "No words would be enough for the courageous act done by 11-year-old Uttam Tanti of Missamari, Sonitpur. He saved the life of a woman and her child who fell into a river. Hats off to his bravery."