Mangangcha

Imphal : The 39th Foundation Day celebration of the Manipur State Bharat Scouts and Guides began with the ceremonial hoisting of the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG) flag at the State Training Centre, Langol Game Village, Zone-I, on Saturday. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of pride and purpose as scouts and guides joined in singing the Bharat Scouts and Guides Prayer Song, followed by the Flag Song, marking the beginning of a day dedicated to service, discipline and youth development.

Amid the serene surroundings of the State Training Centre, the occasion reflected not only the journey of an organisation but also the values, hopes and responsibilities carried by generations of young people.

The celebration served as a reminder that youth development extends beyond classrooms and examinations. It is equally about nurturing character, discipline, leadership, compassion and the courage to face the challenges of life.

Addressing the gathering, State Chief Commissioner Mayanglambam Sushil Kumar, IPS (Retd.), highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and a dedicated guest house for Scouts and Guides in Manipur. Citing examples from neighbouring states like Nagaland, where scouting facilities have developed on a much larger scale, he expressed concern that Manipur continues to face limitations in providing adequate space and resources for a movement that plays a vital role in shaping young minds.

At present, the Manipur State Training Centre operates from a modest tubular structure spread over less than an acre, located near the foothills of the Langol Hill range. For an organisation committed to preparing future generations, the need for a permanent and well-equipped centre remains a pressing concern.

However, the journey of creating spaces for scouting in Manipur has its own chapters of dedication and collective effort. Earlier, a guest house at Kakching Mamangching (Khunuda Hills), Kakching District, was established over approximately one acre of land with semi-pucca structures and named the M. Sudhir Singh Scouts and Guides Guest House. The facility was inaugurated in November 1997 by Lt. General Zameer Uddin Shah (Retd.), the then Brigadier of Kakching Lamkhai Brigade.

The existence of such facilities stands as a reminder that the spirit of scouting has long been nurtured in the state through the contributions of individuals and communities who believed in investing in young people. These spaces are not merely buildings but places where friendships are built, skills are learned and young minds discover the values of service and leadership.

“Scouting needs to be given importance. Our youths need to be engaged in meaningful activities that keep their minds active and prepare them to face the hardships of life through different skills,” said the State Chief Commissioner.

He appealed to the concerned authorities to recognise the contribution of scouting towards building responsible, self-reliant and socially aware citizens.

Vice President of Bharat Scouts and Guides, Manipur, Father Francis, who travelled alone by road from Mao to attend the programme, reflected the dedication and commitment that lies at the heart of scouting. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted the deeper purpose of the movement — serving humanity with values, compassion and faith.

He reminded the gathering that the true essence of scouting is not limited to uniforms, badges or ceremonies, but lies in creating individuals who are ready to serve society with humility and responsibility.

During the celebration, an included scarf presentation was also held as part of the programme. The presentation highlighted the symbolic importance of the Scout and Guide scarf, representing unity, discipline, service and the shared identity of members of the movement. The young participants received the scarves with pride, reflecting the values and responsibilities associated with being part of Bharat Scouts and Guides.

Around 70 Scouts and Guides participated in the celebration, representing Kendriya Vidyalaya Langjing, UNACCO School Khongman, Uripok Thamboumacha High School and Alpha & Omega School, Porompat. Scouts Masters, Guide Captains and state officials, including Vice President W. Ingobi, also attended the programme.

As the organisation steps into its 40th year, members emphasised that proper guest house and training facilities are not merely physical structures, but a foundation for nurturing the dreams, discipline and leadership qualities of Manipur’s youth.

The Manipur State Bharat Scouts and Guides has appealed to the Governor of Manipur, who is also the Chief Patron of the organisation, to recognise the importance of scouting and support its wider implementation across schools in the state for the holistic development of young learners.

The programme concluded with various cultural activities presented by the young participants, showcasing their talents, creativity and the spirit of unity that continues to strengthen the scouting movement in Manipur.