The vibrant city of Belagavi became the epicenter of youthful energy and discipline as the 29th state-level Scouts and Guides Jamborette-2025 officially commenced on Saturday. This six-day residential camp, hosted at the Phoenix Public School in Honaga village, has drawn participants from across Karnataka, marking a significant event in the state's extracurricular calendar.
Dignitaries Highlight Core Values of Scouting
Inaugurating the grand event, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, UT Khader, delivered an inspiring address. He emphasized that the Scouts and Guides movement extends far beyond mere activities; it instills foundational life lessons. Khader pointed out that the program teaches children discipline, restraint, and the spirit of coexistence, actively helping to sculpt their overall personalities. He urged students to recognize the value of time and harness it for personal growth, asserting that a well-formed personality is key to achieving higher positions in life.
Echoing similar sentiments, Basavaraj Horatti, Chairman of the Legislative Council, described the Jamborette as an environment that imparts excellent life lessons. He stated that the six-day schedule is designed to inculcate equality, brotherhood, and coexistence among the young participants, molding them into patriotic and responsible citizens.
Government's Push for Nation-Building Through Scouts
The government's support for the movement was strongly reiterated by several ministers. Madhu Bangarappa, the Minister for Education, affirmed the important role Scouts and Guides play in shaping character. He announced a significant policy direction, revealing that greater emphasis will be placed on the movement at a higher level. Considerations are actively underway to introduce Scouts and Guides programs in every school across Karnataka, a move aimed at universalizing these values.
Jagadish Shettar, MP from Belagavi, highlighted the holistic benefits, noting that scouting provides essential physical and mental stimulation alongside regular academics, paving the way for a disciplined life. Satish Jarkiholi, the District Minister-in-charge, expressed pride in Belagavi hosting the event. He poetically referred to the Jamborette as a "factory teaching human values," and called upon the trained students to step forward as good citizens to build a great India.
A Movement with Global and Spiritual Roots
P.G.R. Sindhia, the State Chief Commissioner of the Scouts and Guides of India, provided a broader perspective. He clarified that the work done by Scouts and Guides is spiritual in nature, transcending the boundaries of any single religion. With the movement active in over 200 countries, its twin goals remain social development and education. Sindhia thanked everyone for their cooperation in organizing the seven-day Jamboree. The inauguration also received spiritual blessings from Shivasiddha Shivacharya Swamiji of Muktimath.
The event saw a notable gathering of officials, including City Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase, ZP CEO Rahul Shinde, Scouts and Guides District Commissioner Gajanan Mannikeri, and several other deputy commissioners, education officers, and local administrators, underscoring the importance accorded to this youth-centric program.
