Bhubaneswar, Dec. 10: After receiving the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement from President Pranab Mukherjee for his science project, 13-year-old Subhendu Kumar Sahu's project has won him a laptop from chief minister Naveen Patnaik.

The multi-utility machine designed by him is named "Gift for Farmers".

The Class VIII student of Somapur Project Upper Primary School from Hinjili district of Ganjam has developed a device that helps the farmers in sowing, tilling of soil, sprinkling of pesticides, cutting and processing of the paddy crops.

Yesterday, Naveen felicitated Subhendu. Congratulating him, the chief minister said: "I am impressed by his humble attitude and hope this young innovator would achieve many successes in future."

"It is a seven-in-one machine. The farmers will be greatly benefited by this machine. It will even save their time and energy," said Subhendu, while explaining the mechanism of the project.

"I have always had an interest for extra curricular activities and received many awards at both state and national-level competitions. But receiving an award from the President and the chief minister will always be special for me. I will work even harder and come up with better innovations," said he.

Subhendu received the national award at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Children's Day.

The national child award recognises children in the age group between four and 15 years with exceptional abilities and who have achieved outstanding status in various fields, including academics, arts, culture and sports. A gold medal and 35 silver medals are given to the children every year for their outstanding achievement. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 10,000, book vouchers worth Rs 3,000, a silver medal, a certificate and a citation.

Subhendu said he was equally interested in creative writing, drawing competitions and debates.