 organized a special Induction Programme for a 24-member delegation from the Bhutan Scouts Association){kind=link}
MAY 29: In a remarkable step towards strengthening bilateral Scouting relations, the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG) organized a special Induction Programme for a 24-member delegation from the Bhutan Scouts Association at its National Headquarters in New Delhi. The delegation is currently in India as part of their educational and cultural exchange programme.
Accompanied by Lieutenant Yashodhara Raj—Associate Professor, Associate NCC Officer, and Assistant Director of Industry Integration & Knowledge Exchange Cell at Sharda University—the Bhutanese Scouts were warmly welcomed by BSG officials and staff. Lt. Raj is mentoring the Bhutanese group during their stay in India, guiding them through various educational interactions.
The event began with a General Salute and the BSG prayer, followed by the Bhutan Scouts’ own traditional prayer. Shri Amar B. Chettri, Executive Director of BSG, officially welcomed the delegation and introduced the NHQ staff. The Bhutan Scouts then introduced themselves, highlighting their enthusiasm and gratitude for the hospitality received.
Ms. Darshana Pawaskar, Director of BSG, presented the BSG scarf to Lt. Yashodhara Raj and extended the gesture to the rest of the Bhutanese team. Shri Arup Sarkar, Deputy Director (Scouts), provided a concise history of Scouting in India, tracing its beginnings in 1909, its unification as Bharat Scouts and Guides, and its national recognition through various prestigious awards.
During the session, Bhutanese delegates shared their experiences and praised the camaraderie between the two nations’ Scout movements. They recalled their participation in Leader Trainers’ Courses in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, and expressed hope for continued engagement. Shri Prassanna Shrivastava, Special Director and APR WSB official, commended the Bhutan Scouts for their dedication and noted the early growth of Scouting in Bhutan from 1994 to 1999.
The visiting delegation toured the BSG Headquarters, explored various departments, and visited the Equipment Shop, where they picked up souvenirs, literature, and uniforms. They also watched a video presentation of the Tamil Nadu Jamboree held in Trichy.
In the concluding session, mementos were exchanged as symbols of friendship. Ms. Pawaskar reaffirmed BSG’s commitment to supporting Bhutan’s future participation in international Scouting events, including increased quotas for upcoming Jamborees. The event ended with a vote of thanks and a commemorative group photograph.