Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 25: The Mangalore City North Local Association successfully hosted the annual Scouts & Guides rally, Cubs & Bulbuls festival, and Rover Rangers meet at Carmel School, drawing an impressive participation of 460 students from various schools. The event, marked by discipline, learning, and camaraderie, showcased the true spirit of the scouting movement.
The day began with a solemn flag hoisting ceremony, setting the tone for the grand event. This was followed by a spirited procession (Jatha) inaugurated by Vishwanath Rai, traffic inspector. With banners in hand and slogans echoing through the streets, students from different Scout and Guide units raised awareness on various traffic rules to be observed by commuters. The procession covered key city landmarks, including Forum Mall and A B Shetty Circle, before returning to the venue.
A highlight of the day was the educational sessions conducted by the traffic police and fire service department. The traffic police provided an informative session on road safety, emphasizing the consequences of traffic violations, while the fire service department held a live demonstration on fire safety measures and emergency response tactics.
The inaugural programme was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including James Cutinha, Block Education Officer (BEO), Nazma Farooqui, assistant commissioner of Traffic Police, Mohammad Thumbe, district commissioner (Scouts), Felcy Fernandes, national adult trainer, Prathima Kumar, assistant district commissioner & district secretary, Bharath Raj, assistant state organizing commissioner, Srinivasa Kini, President, Mangaluru City North Local Association, Shakila Raj, esteemed alumni of Carmel School, Mohini Ramachandran, Mangalore City North secretary, Anil, assistant district commissioner office bearers of the Mangaluru City North local association and District association
The event opened with a heartfelt prayer service, followed by a vibrant welcome dance. The significance of World Thinking Day was highlighted through a well-orchestrated skit, ‘Our Story,’ presented by the guides of Carmel School, Mangaluru.The performance captured the diverse experiences of scouts and guides worldwide, underscoring the unity, values, and global spirit of the movement.
James Cutinha addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of discipline and order in shaping responsible citizens. Nazma Farooqui engaged students in an interactive session on traffic rules, making them more aware of their role in road safety. A special moment in the programme was the recognition of the principal of Carmel School by Shakila and her team, followed by a vote of thanks to the guests.
The afternoon sessions were packed with engaging activities. Scouts and guides participated in a gadget demonstration, while cubs and bulbuls explored their creativity through drawing and craft activities. Representatives from Canara School and Amritha Vidyalaya, Mangaluru, presented an enthralling campfire programme, inaugurated by Akshatha Shenoy, principal of Amritha Vidyalaya, Mangaluru. The energy of the students lit up the evening, making the session a memorable one. Adding an informative touch, a health department officer addressed the gathering on the prevention of dengue and malaria.
The grand event came to a close with the ceremonial lowering of the flag, followed by the singing of the national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana.’ The rally and festival not only provided students with a platform to showcase their talents but also reinforced the core values of scouting discipline, leadership, and service to society.