Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
The much-anticipated 15th Asia Pacific Regional Conference of WAGGGS officially commenced with a grand Inauguration Ceremony on August 19, 2025, at The Leela Ambience Hotel, New Delhi.
The conference was inaugurated by the President, The Bharat Scouts and Guides, Dr. Anil Kumar Jain, who lit the traditional lamp in the gracious presence of distinguished dignitaries, including Chief National Commissioner, The Bharat Scouts and Guides; Dr. K.K. Khandelwal, IAS (Retd.), Vice President, The Bharat Scouts and Guides, Smt. Geetha Natraj, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities and Chief Commissioner of Guides, The Bharat Scouts and Guides, Dr. Pankaj Mittal. Joined by Ms. Candela Gonzalez, World Board Chair, WAGGGS; Ms. Nadine El Achy, Chief Executive, WAGGGS; Ms. Chempaka Emalin Pahamin, Chair of Asia Pacific Region, WAGGGS; Ms. Dato’ Dr. Juseon Byun, Founder of Friends of Asia Pacific Region WAGGGS (FAPW); Ms. Lynne Price, Chair of the FAPW Working Group.
In the presence of H.E. Ms. Aishath Azeema, High Commissioner of the Republic of Maldives to India; Rabindra Jung Thapa, Counsellor, Embassy of Nepal; and H.E. Sh. Josel F. Ignacio, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines.
All guests were warmly welcomed by The Bharat Scouts and Guides with traditional Indian hospitality, including tika and aarti. The distinguished guests were then introduced and escorted to the dais by the Chief National Commissioner.Dr. K. K. Khandelwal IAS(Retd.)
A highlight of the ceremony was the flag march, where delegates from participating Member Organisations, proudly paraded with their Association Flags. Marching in two rows and converging at the center, the delegates created a powerful display of unity. This was followed by the singing of the World Song and the recitation of the BSG Prayer.
In his Welcome Address, the Chief National Commissioner, the Bharat Scouts and Guides, Dr. K. K. Khandelwal IAS(Retd.) warmly greeted the President of BSG, WAGGGS officers, and other distinguished guests. He reflected on the history of The Bharat Scouts and Guides, established on 7 November 1950, and offered an insightful overview of India’s rich cultural heritage. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp by all dignitaries, in accordance with Indian tradition, formally marked the inauguration of the conference.
The cultural segment featured a vibrant Rajasthani Folk Dance, which delighted the audience. The Guests of Honour, Candela Gonzalez, World Board Chair of WAGGGS, and Ms. Nadine El Achy, Chief Executive of WAGGGS, then addressed the assembly.
They said WAGGGS is proud to stand alongside our Member Organisations in the Asia Pacific Region, a region rich in diversity, innovation, and resilience. This conference is more than just a gathering; it is a shared opportunity to honour the achievements and challenges of the past three years, to listen and learn from one another, and to chart a bold course for the future. Together, we stand stronger than ever, committed to ensuring that every girl and young woman in our Movement has the opportunities, voice, and leadership she deserves.
The Chief Guest, President of The Bharat Scouts and Guides and former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha),Dr. Anil Kumar Jain, expressed his gratitude to the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts for organizing this significant event. He highlighted India’s proud history of hosting both national and international gatherings since 1950. His address was followed by another lively Rajasthan dance performance, “Padharo Mare Desh.” The performance captivated the audience, with some overseas delegates spontaneously joining in the dance from their seats.
During the ceremony, Dato’ Dr. Juseon Byun was honoured with a prestigious 25 Years Long Service Award in recognition of her invaluable contribution. The inauguration concluded with a Vote of Thanks, jointly delivered by Ms. Chempaka Emalin Pahamin, Chair of Asia Pacific, WAGGGS, and Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General and Chief Commissioner, The Bharat Scouts and Guides. They expressed heartfelt gratitude to all members of the BSG India and WAGGGS teams for their dedication and support.
No.IPRDH/2025