The National Level Tribal Meet of Scouts, Guides, Rovers and Rangers was formally inaugurated on Thursday at the Meghalaya State Bharat Scouts and Guides Headquarters in Shillong by Meghalaya Education Minister, Lahkmen Rymbui.
The five-day national event aims to promote intercultural learning, leadership, teamwork and community service among young scouts and guides belonging to various tribal communities from across the country. Through a range of activities and interactions, participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences while upholding the values of scouting and guiding, including discipline, service, brotherhood, sisterhood and unity in diversity.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Assistant Director (Region and State) Shri M. Sharma, officials and staff of the Meghalaya State Bharat Scouts and Guides, and participants from Rajasthan, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya and the North Frontier Railway (Assam).
Welcoming the delegates, M. Sharma informed that 176 participants are taking part in the five-day meet. He said the event provides a platform to celebrate India’s rich tribal heritage, cultural diversity and enduring spirit of unity. Participants will engage in cultural exchanges, adventure activities, educational sessions, leadership development programmes and community-building initiatives during the course of the event.
Addressing the gathering, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui lauded the delegates who travelled from different parts of the country to participate in the meet. He praised their enthusiasm, discipline and commitment, describing them as the true embodiment of the scouting and guiding spirit.
The Minister highlighted the vital contribution of tribal communities to India’s development and cultural richness. He noted that tribal societies are custodians of traditions, languages, customs and environmental stewardship, and urged young people to take pride in their identity while embracing opportunities in education, skill development and leadership.
Rymbui also encouraged participants to remain aspirational and make use of various government initiatives aimed at the welfare and empowerment of tribal communities. At the same time, he stressed the importance of preserving indigenous cultures, languages, traditions and ways of life.
Referring to the increasingly interconnected world, the Minister said tribal youth should remain rooted in their values and heritage while striving for academic excellence, innovation and leadership. He urged them to become role models within their communities by combining cultural pride with modern aspirations.
Emphasising national integration, Rymbui said India’s strength lies in its diversity and called upon the participants to strengthen bonds of friendship, mutual respect and understanding across regions and cultures while contributing positively to nation-building.
The inaugural programme also featured colourful cultural performances by delegates from participating states, showcasing the rich traditions, music, dance and heritage of India’s diverse tribal communities.