Itanagar: In a significant ceremony held at Raj Bhavan today, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General KT Parnaik conferred the prestigious Bharat Scouts and Guides Rajya Puraskar on 43 Scouts and Guides, celebrating their dedication to community service and leadership.
The Governor emphasised that the award was more than just an accolade, urging the youth to embrace their role as catalysts for a stronger and more progressive India. “The Rajya Puraskar is not merely recognition, but a responsibility to serve with greater zeal,” he remarked during the event.
The ceremony served as a testament to the remarkable growth of the scouting movement in Arunachal Pradesh. From its modest beginnings in 1948 with just 24 boys in Pasighat, the initiative has expanded significantly. State Officer Commander Chanyan Lowang revealed that the state now boasts 877 active units across 439 schools, with a membership exceeding 13,000 Scouts and Guides.
Governor Parnaik underlined the critical role of youth leadership in achieving the vision of a developed India, known as Viksit Bharat. He called on the Scouts and Guides to innovate, foster inclusivity, and work tirelessly to contribute to this mission. He encouraged more young people to join the movement, describing it as a valuable opportunity to cultivate discipline, responsibility, and leadership qualities.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Education Minister PD Sona and State Chief Commissioner Marken Kadu, who lauded the efforts of the Scouts and Guides in promoting social responsibility and cultural preservation. The gathering featured an array of activities, including first aid demonstrations by the awardees and cultural performances by students of Hornbill English Medium School.
Although 161 youth qualified for the Rajya Puraskar this year, only 43 could attend the ceremony in person. Traditional dance performances and a thematic presentation on water conservation further highlighted the movement’s commitment to addressing contemporary challenges while preserving cultural heritage. Governor Parnaik concluded the event by urging schools and communities to support the Bharat Scouts and Guides, underscoring its importance in nurturing a generation dedicated to service and nation-building.
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