US congratulates Nobel Peace prize winners Kailash & Malala

The release said: Kailash and his organization, Bachpan Bachao Andolan, have worked to eradicate modern slavery in India. Their work has freed thousands of children from abusive labor practices, assisted in bringing human traffickers to justice, and improved awareness of the crime of human trafficking. Kailash has been a longtime partner of the State Department, which named him a Trafficking in Persons Report Hero in 2007.

"Malala has become a global leader, inspiring millions of people through her advocacy for girl’s education. The brutal attack against Malala by the Taliban two years ago this month could not silence her. The attack only drew a stark contrast between people like Malala who work to build a future and the extremists who simply want to destroy. Malala’s example challenges us all to support the struggle against brutality and heed the call to action for human rights and education," it added.

Kerry said: "This award is also a reminder that there are still millions of children around the world being exploited and barred from school every day. That’s why Kailash and Malala’s work is so important. While they come from different countries and religious backgrounds, they share the same passion for protecting the most vulnerable among us."

Kerry added: "I am inspired by these two leaders. The United States will continue to support all efforts to ensure a bright future for all the world’s children."