By Presley Andrade for BIS Mumbai

A two-day Scout camp was held at Don Bosco School and Junior College, Lonavla on February 20 and 21, 2026, bringing together nearly 100 students. Participants included installed Scouts and aspiring members. Several new members were formally invested as Scouts during a ceremony on the second day.

 The camp opened with an inspection process followed by a ceremonial flag break. Organisers said these proceedings were intended to set the tone for the programme.

 Activities over the two days focused on practical skills and team-based learning. Sessions included tent pitching, first aid training, whistle signals, and demonstrations of knots and lashings. Scouts also took part in B.P. exercises designed to develop physical alertness and coordination. Hygiene sessions were conducted to reinforce standards of cleanliness within the movement.

The camp featured sessions led by Vijaykumar Tukaram Jori, a retired headmaster of VPS High School and Junior College, Lonavala. He is a recipient of district and state-level awards, including the National Laxmi Mazumdar Award for his contribution to the Bharat Scouts and Guides. Jori conducted training on lashings, hygiene, Scout rules, and guidelines on conduct. Organisers said his sessions focused on discipline and character formation.

 Team-building activities formed a central part of the programme. Scouts prepared meals within their patrol groups as part of a structured cooking exercise aimed at promoting cooperation and shared responsibility. Adventure-based games were also conducted to encourage participation and group coordination.

 A campfire was held on the evening of February 20. The programme included songs, skits and patrol presentations. According to organisers, the event was designed to provide an opportunity for collective participation and reflection.

The camp concluded on February 21 at approximately 4:30 p.m. with a prize distribution ceremony. Tanish, a student of Standard 9, received the Best Scout Award. Patrol Wolf was named Best Troop. Patrol Lion received the Most Disciplined Team award, while Patrol Tiger was recognised as the Most Hygienic Patrol. Patrol Bear was awarded Best Cooks.

 Organisers said the camp aimed to promote leadership, discipline, teamwork and preparedness among participants in line with the Scout movement’s stated principles.