By OUR STAFF REPORTER
DEHRADUN, 18 Sep: Scouting and Guiding has been an integral part of curriculum in the schools run by the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, which chiefly focuses on building confidence, self- esteem, learning important life skills and leadership skills, team building and outdoor adventure. In this context, a 3- day long ‘KVS State Himalaya Wood Badge Reunion’ programme, celebrating 100 years of Wood Badge, commenced at KV ONGC here, today, with great zeal and gusto. As many as 58 teacher scouts and guides from different Kendriya Vidyalayas across India are taking part. The programme was inaugurated by Vinod Kumar Pandey, Dy Commissioner (I/ C), KVS Dehradun Region, who was the Chief Guest. Alka Gupta, Assistant Commissioner, was also present. The 3-day long programme would be carried out under the supervision of SSH Zaidi, State Organising Commissioner (Scouts), KVS (HQ), New Delhi, VK Tiwari, State Training Commissioner (Scouts), KVS (HQ), Archana Shrivastava, State Training Commissioner (Guides), KVS (HQ), and Janardhan, Assistant State Training Commissioner (Scouts), KVS (HQ). All the dignitaries were accorded a green welcome by Dr Anshum Sharma Kalsi, Principal, KV ONGC, along with Abhilekh Pilkhwal, Vice Principal. Thereafter, a floral tribute to Lord Baden Powell, the founder of Bharat Scouts and Guides, was offered by all the eminent guests. A welcome song presented by the students of KV ONGC captivated the hearts of all. The programme began with the flag break ceremony which was followed by the inaugural and centenary ceremony. The post lunch session began with the briefing on the event and, thereafter, all the participants were divided into different groups. It was followed by an interactive session, wherein all the participants shared their experience of being Wood Badge holders. The next session involved some games and an outing. The upcoming days will focus on the history of the Wood Badge and various other interesting activities of Scouting and Guiding. In his address, Vinod Kumar Pandey said that the programme would instil a feeling of commitment among all the scouters towards the Scout movement and help them become better leaders in future.