Shillong, November 08 : The 74th Foundation Day of the Bharat Scouts and Guides was celebrated in Shillong on November 7, 2023. The Rajya Puraskar Rally was held today at Raj Bhavan, Shillong.
The Governor of Meghalaya, Phagu Chauhan, who is also the Patron of the Meghalaya Bharat Scouts and Guides gave away the Rajya Puraskar certificate awards to 84 Scouts, 9 Rovers, 76 Guides and 9 Rangers in the presence of Meghalaya Chief Secretary, D P Wahlang, Secretary to the Governor of Meghalaya, Dr. B. D. R Tiwari and other dignitaries.
7 leaders (5 male and 2 female) were also felicitated for successfully completing the Himalayan Wood badge course.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor while lauding all the scouts and guides who have successfully completed their Rajya Puraskar, said that the Foundation Day serves as a reminder of the vision and foresight of its founders, who recognized the immense potential of scouting and guiding in shaping the lives of the youth. Drawing attention to the countless individuals across the nation whose lives have been positively impacted through scouting and guiding, the Governor called on the scouts and guides to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of scouting and guiding and to pledge to create an environment that nurtures the growth and development of the youth, ensuring a brighter future for the nation. Recognizing the transformative power of the movement, the Governor further assured the government’s support and encouragement in further promoting the scouting and guiding movement in the State.
Meghalaya Chief Secretary, D P Wahlang in his address heaped praise on the scouts and guides for their hard work, perseverance, and determination in the completion of their Rajya Puraskar and also congratulated all the mentors who have played a major role in motivating, inspiring and shaping the young Scouts and Guides in moving forward despite many challenges.
Pointing out that importance of inculcating the habit of service to humanity, Wahlang hoped that their achievements will serve as a source of inspiration for the youth of our state.
On the occasion, the Governor also released the Foundation Flag, the sale proceeds of which will be sent to the National Headquarters of the Bharat Scouts and Guides, to be utilised for the needy all over the country.
It maybe mentioned that the Rajya Puraskar, known as the Governor’s Award, is the highest award a Scout and Guide can earn at the State-level on completion of 13 years of age and after being taught by trained Scout Master and Guide Captain and undergoing a State-level testing by a team of qualified examiners.
