Scouts & Guides
A worldwide movement that began with a single camp in 1907 and has shaped generations of young people.
A movement that began with 20 boys
The Scout Movement started in 1907 when Lord Baden Powell held an experimental camp on Brownsea Island, England, with 20 boys. His book “Scouting for Boys” marked the start of the movement, which soon spread around the world — including to India.
Outdoor learning
Camps and outdoor activities at the heart of scouting.
Character
Builds character, responsibility and teamwork.
Loyalty to the country
Indian scouting placed loyalty to the nation in the Scout Promise.
How it began
The first camp
Lord Baden Powell conducted an experimental camp on Brownsea Island in England with 20 boys, and published “Scouting for Boys”.
Scouting comes to India
Captain T.H. Baker established the first Scout Troop in Bangalore in 1909. The first Guide Company in India was started in Jabalpur in 1911. These early units were open only to European and Anglo-Indian children.
Guides for girls
After girls appeared at the Crystal Palace Rally wanting to join, Lord Baden Powell started a movement for girls with the help of his sister, Agnes Baden Powell.
Scouting for Indian children
Nationalist leaders formed the Sewa Samiti Scout Association, and Dr. Annie Besant started a Scout Association for Indian boys in Madras. Indian leaders insisted that loyalty to the country — not the British Empire — be part of the Scout Promise.
Beyond the classroom at Panangad VHSS
Explore our wings and student activities.