Praising the effort of the Bharat Scouts and Guides in nation building, President Droupadi Murmu said here on Wednesday that the movement always worked for the character building of boys and girls without any distinction of creed, race or gender.

Addressing the inauguration of 18th National Jamboree of the Bharat Scouts and Guides at Rohat in Pali district of Rajasthan, Murmu described the association as the largest voluntary, non-political, uniformed youth organisation and educational movement in the country.

The president said that before starting their journey, the scouts and guides make a promise to keep themselves physically strong, mentally awake and morally right not for personal gains but for the collective well-being of the society. These characteristics of higher consciousness when followed make the world a better place, she added.

Citing the example of Martin Luther King Junior and Bill Gates who were scouts, she advised the scouts and guides to adopt the universal values and ethos which will guide you in future. The lessons they learn as scouts and guides would enrich their lives in countless ways.

Murmu recounted how during the COVID-19 pandemic the Bharat Scouts and Guides shown exemplary courage in serving the society.

Speaking about the ill effects of climate change, she said, “The impact of rising temperature, sea levels and weather uncertainties is quite clear. Before it is too late, we have to take immediate corrective measures. The scouts and guides can play an important role in making people adopt renewable energy to reduce carbon footprint, and promote sustainable development practices.”

She said that as scouts and guides, it is their duty to educate people about the importance of protecting biodiversity, maintaining environmental balance and promoting responsible tourism practices.

The President said, “Today, India is considered a young country in the world. Youth are the builders of the future of the nation. The world is changing very fast and they have to be future- ready. They (youths) should set higher goals to meet the future challenges that the country and society would be facing. She urged the Scouts and Guides to move forward with complete faith in themselves and success will follow”.

Among others who addressed the inauguration included Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

About 37,000 scouts and guides are participating in the jumboree going to last till January 10.