BS&G Celebrates 150th Anniversary of Vande Mataram
Description :
Bharat Scouts & Guides (BS&G) launches local competitions and digital challenges to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, engaging youth nationwide.
Published: 30 November 2025 | 11:59 PM IST (GMT+05:30, India)
Published By: Mr. Dibakar Mandal
INTRODUCTION
The Bharat Scouts & Guides (BS&G) is actively commemorating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, a landmark event celebrating one of India’s most iconic patriotic songs. To foster patriotism, creativity, and civic engagement among youth, BS&G has launched a series of local competitions and digital challenges across its various districts and units.
The campaign emphasizes inclusive participation, encouraging Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Bulbuls, and Rovers/Rangers to express their creativity through art, music, essay writing, and digital media. By integrating modern digital platforms, BS&G ensures that youth from urban and rural areas can engage with the campaign meaningfully, bridging the gap between traditional patriotic observance and contemporary technology (UNESCO, UNICEF).
Details :
Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, has historically been a symbol of India’s struggle for independence. Its 150th anniversary provides an opportunity to reinforce cultural pride and national identity among young citizens.
BS&G, as a leading youth development organization in India, has traditionally focused on:
- Promoting civic responsibility and patriotism
- Encouraging cultural expression through Scouting activities
- Integrating digital tools for youth engagement
The current campaign aligns with BS&G’s ongoing strategy of combining cultural heritage with innovative educational approaches, ensuring that the youth remain connected to India’s historical milestones (BSG National HQ, WOSM).
Local Competitions
BS&G has organized competitions at district and unit levels, enabling participants to showcase talent in:
- Essay writing and storytelling on patriotic themes
- Art and poster-making inspired by Vande Mataram
- Music and recitation contests to preserve and promote traditional renditions
These competitions aim to cultivate leadership, creativity, and collaboration among youth participants, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility toward the nation.
Digital Challenges
Acknowledging the power of digital platforms, BS&G has introduced interactive challenges online, including:
- Digital poster design and video storytelling
- Social media campaigns highlighting Vande Mataram’s history
- Online quizzes and contests to test knowledge about India’s cultural heritage
These initiatives ensure that even youth in remote locations can participate, bridging the urban-rural divide (UNICEF).
Impact on Youth Engagement
The campaign targets 33,000+ Scouts and Guides nationwide, offering them:
- Opportunities to develop creativity and critical thinking skills
- Platforms for digital literacy and innovative content creation
- Increased awareness of India’s historical and cultural milestones
By integrating digital methods with traditional Scouting activities, BS&G is creating a modern framework for civic and cultural education.
Expert Opinions
Mr. Dibakar Mandal, BSG Trainer:
“Vande Mataram has always inspired generations. Through these competitions and digital challenges, we are encouraging Scouts and Guides to connect with our heritage while honing 21st-century skills.”
Dr. K.K. Khandelwal, Chief National Commissioner, BSG:
“Our approach ensures that youth understand the significance of patriotic symbols and also gain creative and technological skills, empowering them to become responsible citizens.”
Global Perspective
Youth organizations worldwide increasingly blend cultural education with digital literacy. By following this approach, BS&G aligns with global practices recommended by UNESCO and WOSM, emphasizing digital engagement, leadership, and cultural preservation (WOSM, UNESCO).
Implementation Strategy
- Collaborative Framework: Local units coordinate with district offices to ensure equitable participation.
- Digital Infrastructure: Online submission portals and social media engagement are used for broader reach and visibility.
- Monitoring & Feedback: Performance tracking and feedback mechanisms are in place to recognize talent and improve program delivery.
- Certification & Recognition: Winners and active participants receive certificates and recognition, boosting morale and motivation.
Challenges and Recommendations
Challenges:
- Ensuring participation in remote or under-resourced areas
- Maintaining quality standards and fairness in digital submissions
- Encouraging consistent engagement amid busy academic schedules
Recommendations:
- Use hybrid models combining online and offline participation
- Partner with local educational institutions for wider reach
- Provide mentorship and guidance to participants for effective learning (UNICEF, UNESCO)
CONCLUSION
BS&G’s campaign to mark the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram represents a forward-looking approach to cultural education. By integrating local competitions with digital challenges, Scouts and Guides are empowered to celebrate heritage creatively, learn modern digital skills, and engage actively in civic life.
This initiative strengthens the link between tradition and technology, fostering a new generation of informed, skilled, and patriotic youth ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
FAQs
Q1: Who can participate in the Vande Mataram competitions?
A1: Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Bulbuls, and Rovers/Rangers from BS&G units across India are eligible to participate.
Q2: What types of activities are included?
A2: Participants can engage in essay writing, art, poster-making, music, recitation, and digital challenges.
Q3: Are online submissions accepted?
A3: Yes, BS&G has introduced digital challenges and online submission portals to ensure inclusive participation.
Q4: Will participants receive recognition?
A4: Winners and active participants receive certificates and acknowledgments from local and national BS&G offices.
Q5: How does this campaign align with global Scouting initiatives?
A5: The program emphasizes digital literacy, creativity, and cultural awareness, aligning with WOSM and UNESCO recommendations for youth engagement (WOSM, UNESCO).
References:
- BSG National HQ
- World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM)
- UNESCO
- UNICEF
- BSG National Programs
