30 years ago in audience, today on stage: Speaker UT Khader recalls scouting days
New Delhi: Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader on Sunday recalled his school days as a Scout while addressing the President’s Awards ceremony of Bharat Scouts and Guides in New Delhi.
“Being a Scout Guide for five formative years from 5th to 10th grade shaped not just my character, but my capacity to lead with empathy, resilience, and purpose. In today’s rapidly evolving political and social landscape, the values instilled through Scout Guide training are more relevant than ever. Scouting taught me discipline, teamwork, service, how to face challenges calmly, and to make decisions in difficult situations. As society struggles with challenges like misinformation, polarization, and inequality, Scout Guides emerge as grounded leaders who prioritize truth, inclusivity, and civic duty, ” Khader said.
Khader added, “There are medical colleges to make good doctors, and engineering colleges to make good engineers. In the same way, Scouts and Guides serve as a great platform to nurture responsible and exemplary citizens. Thirty years ago, I was seated among the audience just like you. Today, I stand before you on this stage. This opportunity is not meant for me alone, one day, it can be yours as well. My heartfelt wish is that you achieve even greater heights and rise to positions far beyond mine in the future.”
Expressing pride in the gathering, he said, “Seeing the enthusiastic, confident, and determined youth gathered here, I feel immense hope and pride for the future of India. You are the pillars of this great nation, the very foundation upon which India is being recognized across the world as stronger, brighter, and more progressive than ever before.”
He described Scouting and Guiding as a journey built on three strong values: “The journey of scouting and guiding is a beautiful blend of Seva (Service), Sanskar (Values), and Sahyog (Teamwork). These three pillars act as a powerful framework for the total personality development of an individual. In short, this is a transformative journey from the self to the service of others. It builds character beyond the classroom, transforming students into responsible global citizens. I am very much delighted to see our young girls in Guides, representing Naari Shakti of India, ready to lead, explore, and scale new heights. You are truly an inspiration to millions.”
Congratulating the winners, he said, “This award ceremony is not just a ceremony to honour you, it is a profound expression of hope and confidence, a hope that you will carry these values forward, and that you will continue to contribute your service, strength, and skills for the betterment of society, thereby inspiring countless others to walk in your footsteps. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you for your remarkable achievements. This is not your successful end, but a new beginning.”
Khader also acknowledged the support behind the awardees’ success, adding, “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to your parents and coaches for the hard work and support behind these remarkable achievements. I hope that with your guidance, they will achieve even greater heights, further strengthen the legacy of Bharat Scouts and Guides, and make a valuable contribution to society.”
Shedding light on the spirit of unity in diversity, he said, “Scouts and Guides is not just about wearing a uniform, it is about wearing responsibility. You also represent the beauty of unity in diversity. No matter where we come from, what language we speak, or what beliefs we hold, we are bound by the common thread of love for humanity. Let us always celebrate this unity and work together to create a more inclusive and compassionate world. Remember, every small action you take as Scouts, Guides, Rangers, and Rovers has the potential to create a ripple effect. Whether it is planting a tree, helping someone cross a busy street, or standing up for what is right, you represent the power of change.”
He added, “The Scout and Guide Law teaches us to respect others, value diversity, and work for harmony. By living these principles, you don’t just grow as individuals but inspire others to follow your lead. Carry forward the torch of selfless service, integrity, and discipline, and continue to make a positive impact on society.”
Speaking about leadership, Khader stressed, “True leadership is not about standing in front and commanding, but about encouraging, inspiring, and illuminating the path for others. A true leader strives to be a voice for the voiceless in society, a light for those in darkness, a ray of hope for the poor and the suffering, a deity of justice ensuring fairness to the most marginalized person in society, and moving forward with everyone.”
He urged the youth to be changemakers, guiding lights, and sources of inspiration for those around them in contributing to the greater good.
“True leadership is not about chasing fame or wealth, but about initiating change that empowers others and uplifts society. While fame and money may fade away with time, values, service, and sacrifice remain eternal, making individuals immortal in the hearts of people,” he said.
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless words, “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” Khader emphasized, “One must not only be the change but also lead and inspire change for the nation’s progress.”
He furthermore urged everyone to take a collective oath to leave the world better than they found it.
Union Minister for Labour, Employment, Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, Former Chief National Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides Dr. K. K. Khandelwal, Former Minister and MP of Chhattisgarh Brij Mohan Agarwal, MP of Delhi Manoj Tiwari, Former Justices Jhaveria and Geetanjali, Additional chief National Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides M. A. Khalid, National General Secretary of Bharat Scouts and Guides P. G. R. Scindia, and others were present on this occasion. 
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Couple, son 'hacked' to death over witchcraft suspicion in Jharkhand's Palamu
Medininagar (PTI): A couple and their 18-year-old son were allegedly hacked to death over suspicion of practising witchcraft in Jharkhand's Palamu, police said on Sunday.
Their minor daughter was also injured in the attack late on Saturday, a police officer said.
The bodies were recovered from their house on Sunday in Panki police station area, he said.
“Initial investigation suggests that the case is related to witchcraft suspicion,” Manoj Kumar Jha, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Lesliganj told PTI.
A manhunt is on to nab the culprits, Jha said.
The girl suffered severe injuries and has been admitted to a government hospital, he said.
The deceased have been identified as Vijay Bhuiyan (45), his wife Kalia Devi (40), and their son Chotu Bhuiyan.
The bodies have been sent to Medinirai Medical College and Hospital (MMCH) for post-mortem examination.
