75 Years of Bharat Scouts and Guides: President Murmu Urges Youth to Lead Nation’s Future

The President noted with pride that India today has over 6.3 million Scouts and Guides, making Bharat Scouts and Guides one of the largest youth scouting organisations globally.

President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the closing ceremony of the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of Bharat Scouts and Guides and addressed the organisation’s 19th National Jamboree in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on 28 November 2025. The event marked a historic milestone for the Scouts and Guides movement in India, celebrating 75 years of service, discipline, and nation-building, while also bringing together thousands of young participants from across the country.

Celebrating 75 Years of Service and National Spirit

In her address, President Murmu said it was a matter of immense pride that Bharat Scouts and Guides has, for seven and a half decades, consistently played a transformative role in shaping responsible and service-minded youth. She emphasised that the organisation has become a pillar of community support during crises. Whether dealing with natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, or public health emergencies like epidemics, Scouts and Guides have always been among the first to extend help with courage and compassion.

She also highlighted that promoting national unity and social harmony remains one of the organisation’s greatest achievements. Through its camps, training programmes, and community initiatives, Bharat Scouts and Guides instils the values of tolerance, cooperation, and brotherhood among the young citizens of India.

One of the World’s Largest Youth Movements

The President noted with pride that India today has over 6.3 million Scouts and Guides, making Bharat Scouts and Guides one of the largest youth scouting organisations globally. Remarkably, over 2.4 million girls are active members, reflecting the organisation's commitment to gender inclusion and empowerment.

President Murmu applauded these young girls for embracing the path of discipline, service, adventure, and civic responsibility, and said their participation reflects the growing leadership aspirations of India’s daughters.

The Motto “Be Prepared”: A Lifelong Guiding Principle

The President reiterated the powerful motto of Scouts and Guides—“Be Prepared.” She explained that this principle goes far beyond uniformed activities and adventure camps. It represents a mindset of readiness to face challenges with courage, clarity, and confidence.

She encouraged the youth to develop a wide range of essential skills:

• Technical abilities, to navigate the modern world

• Communication skills, to express ideas effectively

• Coordination and teamwork, for collaborative problem-solving

• Leadership and initiative, to guide others in times of need

These abilities, she said, will serve them not only in personal growth but also in building stronger communities and shaping the nation’s future.

Youth as the Torchbearers of India’s Progress

President Murmu emphasised that India’s youth are both the architects of the nation’s future and custodians of its civilisational heritage. She compared an empowered young citizen to a radiant lamp that can light many more lamps, spreading knowledge, compassion, and inspiration.

She expressed confidence that the Scouts and Guides, with their training in discipline, empathy, and service, will continue to uplift society and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development. She urged them to remain committed to the values they learn—selflessness, honesty, responsibility, and patriotism.

A Renewed Call to Nation-Building

As the Diamond Jubilee celebrations concluded, the President acknowledged the dedication of trainers, volunteers, and leaders who have nurtured the organisation over the decades. She underscored that Bharat Scouts and Guides will remain a vital force in strengthening India’s social fabric, enhancing disaster-response capabilities, and cultivating a generation that is confident, compassionate, and nationally conscious.

The event concluded with renewed enthusiasm among thousands of young Scouts and Guides who resolved to carry forward their organisation’s motto and work as active contributors to India’s journey toward a bright and promising future.