by Namrata Godetti for BIS Mumbai

The Don Bosco School, Nashik Scout Troop organized a memorable event on February 20 and 22, 2025, at the school premises. The event included a Scout Camp, the Investiture Ceremony of Cubs and Bulbuls, and the celebration of Chintan Diwas. These activities aimed to foster leadership, teamwork, and community service while promoting the core values of scouting. Chintan Diwas, in particular, provided a meaningful opportunity to reflect on how scouting shapes responsible citizens.

The camp was meticulously organized by Scout Master and Scout In-charge, PT Sir Santosh, with the support of Guide Captains and teachers. On February 20, Fr Rixson along with Fr Pannasingh, were warmly welcomed by the scouts with a Guard of Honour—a gesture of respect and admiration. The program commenced with the Scout Prayer Song. This was followed by the garlanding of the portrait of Sir Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the scouting movement. The event continued with the hoisting of the flag, symbolizing the unity and principles of scouting.  

The day was filled with a variety of exciting activities, including:

• Tent Pitching: Scouts worked together to pitch tents, enhancing their teamwork and outdoor skills.

• Cooking Without Fire and With Fire: Scouts showcased their cooking skills in two sessions—one with fire, using outdoor cooking techniques, and one without fire, focusing on creative, safe, and easy food preparation methods.

• Song and Skit Performance: Scouts performed songs and skits, highlighting the importance of teamwork, creativity, and leadership. These performances were both entertaining and reflective of the values of scouting.

• Guest Lecture: A guest speaker delivered an inspiring lecture on the importance of leadership, community service, and the scouting movement. The lecture was interactive and helped scouts gain a deeper understanding of their role as young leaders in society.

• Dismantling of Tents: After the camp, scouts worked together to dismantle the tents, emphasizing teamwork and the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of the campsite.

• Cleanliness Drive: A cleanliness drive was held, where scouts cleaned up the school premises and surrounding areas. This activity reinforced the principles of service and environmental responsibility.

On February 22, the legacy of Lord Baden-Powell was honored on his birth anniversary. The observance of Chintan Diwas on this day was a profound and inspiring experience too. The event commenced with the principal ceremoniously garlanding his portrait, setting a reverent tone for the occasion. The celebration was further enriched by a series of engaging activities that embodied the spirit of scouting, allowing participants to reflect on its core principles and the journey it fosters in developing character, leadership, and service.

The combined events of the Scout Camp, Investiture Ceremony of Cubs and Bulbuls, and Chintan Diwas Celebration proved to be a remarkable success. Through these experiences, scouts not only honed essential outdoor skills but also deepened their commitment to the fundamental values of scouting.