President Droupadi Murmu delivered an inspiring address at the closing ceremony of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and 19th national jamboree of Bharat Scouts and Guides in Lucknow on Friday, emphasizing the crucial role of youth in shaping India's future.
Celebrating 75 Years of Service
The President expressed that it's a matter of great pride for India that Bharat Scouts and Guides has been inspiring young people to become active participants in nation-building for the past 75 years. She highlighted how this voluntary, non-political youth movement has grown to become one of the largest organizations in the world with over 6.3 million members across India.
Murmu particularly noted with happiness that more than 2.4 million girls are associated with this organization. She congratulated all girls for choosing the path of discipline, dedication, and the welfare of society and humanity.
Spirit of Competition and Cooperation
Addressing the young participants, the President encouraged them to use the opportunity of events like the jamboree to know each other better, sharing experiences and dreams with fellow mates. She acknowledged several competitions in the jamboree, noting that every competition teaches something new, strengthens team spirit, and inspires harder work.
However, she emphasized that along with the spirit of competition, the spirit of cooperation is equally essential for the strength of the nation and society. This balanced approach, she suggested, is what makes strong citizens and ultimately, a strong nation.
Youth as Nation's Architects and Guardians
The President described the youth of the nation as both the architects of India's future and the guardians of its great cultural and civilizational traditions. She used the beautiful analogy that a strong and sensitive individual can empower and sensitize many others, just like a lamp lights several other lamps.
Reflecting on the Bharat Scouts and Guides' motto, 'Be Prepared', Murmu explained that this means one must be prepared to face any challenges that may arise in the future. She urged all young members to develop the ability to face any challenge without hesitation, with determination and confidence.
The President applauded Bharat Scouts and Guides for making youth empowered, sensitive, and committed to work for the country's future. She noted that whether it's technical skills, communication skills, team coordination, problem-solving skills, or leadership abilities, the organization prepares youth with everything that is helpful in their life.
Path to Developed India by 2047
Murmu stated that India today stands at a crucial juncture in its development journey, with the goal of achieving a developed India by 2047. She emphasized that this ambitious target is only possible if 65% of India's population, which is under the age of 35, resolutely strives to achieve this goal.
The President expressed confidence that the youth will devote themselves to the development of our nation. She highlighted that the government is making numerous efforts to empower young people and channel their energy into the virtuous tasks of nation-building.
Underlining that the spirit of service is the greatest strength of Scouts and Guides, Murmu noted that whether it's a flood, an earthquake, or an epidemic, Scouts and Guides are always at the forefront of assistance. She identified the promotion of national unity as another hallmark of this remarkable organization.
