HYDERABAD, SEPTEMBER 21, 2026: With the inspiring motto, “Be a mirror to reflect, be a lamp to illuminate,” the youth organisation ‘My Gift’ felicitated talented Army soldiers at a special programme held in Hyderabad on Monday.
With the noble vision of “Let everyone live, let everyone grow,” Indian Army Soldier, multilingual poet, writer and author Peruka Raju founded ‘My Gift’ in his native village in Rajanna-Sircilla district, with the aim of bringing meaningful change to remote and underserved areas. What began as a humble service initiative in a remote village has today spread its spirit across the country, carrying with it the values of service and patriotism.
As part of the initiative, Peruka Raju provided essential furniture to the school in his native village and arranged special teachers to address the shortage of teaching staff. These efforts contributed to remarkable Class X results, earning recognition in the erstwhile united Karimnagar district. Whenever he returned to his village on leave, he also spent time guiding students not only in academics but in social awareness and human values.
Over the years, ‘My Gift’ has undertaken several service-oriented activities, including blood-group identification camps, distribution of clothes to the needy, cash incentives and encouragement awards for high-achieving Class X students, talent competitions and literary programmes. The organisation also recognises distinguished contributions to literature by presenting the ‘My Gift Sahiti Puraskaram’ every year.
Continuing this tradition of encouragement, Raju, the founder and driving force behind ‘My Gift’, felicitated Army soldiers who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in their respective fields while serving the nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Raju said, “Every person should strive to do something meaningful for society. A tree gives its shade and fruit to others; a river does not preserve its waters for itself. Life becomes truly meaningful when we learn to live for others like trees and rivers. A soldier who stands guard over the nation is a true embodiment of patriotism.”
The soldiers expressed their happiness and gratitude on being honoured. Raju also encouraged everyone to read his forthcoming English poetry collection, ‘All Is Well’. His address in English on the occasion was warmly appreciated by those present.
The programme was attended by personnel from different states, including Pradeep Kumar Rajput, Shravan Kumar Bhatt, Perumal, Heera, Dheeraj, Ajay, Aman, Nirmal, Gautam, Shiva, Prabhat, Harinder, Kaushal, Arya and Snehit, among others.
“To recognise talent is encouragement to share encouragement is the greatest gift”
About the Author
