In what can be seen as an event aimed at recognizing Youth Excellence in Service and Leadership, President Droupadi Murmu honored outstanding young individuals by presenting the prestigious Scouts/Guides/Rovers/Rangers Award Certificates for the years 2018-2021 at a ceremony took place at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on July 22.
It was a landmark event held at Godavari Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan in which awards were conferred to 16 Scouts, Guides, Rovers and Rangers of the Bharat Scouts and Guides awards and certificates for their discipline, social service, leadership, and valuable contribution.
The awards recognize the dedication, discipline, and valuable contributions of young Scouts, Guides, Rovers -young men in the age group of 15-25, and Rangers -young women, aged 15-25, who have demonstrated exemplary service and leadership within the Bharat Scouts and Guides movement. These awards, including the highest ‘Rashtrapati Award’, are a testament to their commitment to community development, social service, and personal growth.
The Bharat Scouts and Guides organization plays a crucial role in instilling values of selfless service, patriotism, and moral conduct in youth, fostering responsible citizens. The President’s presentation of these certificates, covering a period of several years, acknowledges the continued efforts and achievements of these young people despite various challenges.
The event celebrated the spirit of Scouting and Guiding, highlighting its importance in shaping the character and capabilities of future generations in India. This momentuous ocassion marked the revival of Rashtrapati Award tradition which was institutedin the year 1961 and continued until 2015.
Speaking on the occasion President Droupadi Murmu said that dedicating life for the nation and society is the best way to live life. President Murmu was addressing the 52nd President Scouts and Guides Awards for the years 2018-2021 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. President Murmu further said that organizations like the Bharat Scouts and Guides instill the ideals of selfless service and patriotism with moral values into the youth. She lauded the gender parity showcased for an impressive proportion of women and girls in the organisation.
A formal meeting was later held in Mahanadi Hall with President Droupadi Murmu attended by President of Bharat Scouts and Guides, Dr KK Khandelwal, IAS(Retd) , Chief National Commissioner, Rupinder Brar International Commissioner (Guides) . She presented Bharat Scouts and Guides scarf to President Murmu and other members besides providing overview of the Movement. Dr Khandelwal presented a Plaque of Honour to the President . He also highlighted aims and objectives in addition to contributions to national development and harmony by Scouts and Guides over the decades.
President Murmu also interacted with recepients and other members on the occassion. She noted with appreciation that 50 percent of the particpants were women and rest 50 per cent men, emphasizing gender equality as a matter of pride.