The Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG) Diamond Jubilee Jamboree, held in Manapparai, Tamilnadu,from January 28th to February 3rd, 2025,witnessed a surge of interest in amateur radio.
The event, which brought together approximately 20,000 Scouts and Guides from across India and beyond, featured a Ham Radio Pavilion that proved a major attraction,particularly among students.
The Rajapalayam International Radio Communicators Club (RIRCOM),VU2IRD,was invited by the BSG National Headquarters to set up and operate the Ham Radio stations.
RIRCOM provided HF, VHF, and even LEO Satellite Communication demonstrations, showcasing the diverse capabilities of this fascinating hobby and service.
A special call sign, “AU75BSG,” was issued by the Ministry of Telecommunications, WPC Wing, New Delhi, to Mr. Ramesh Kumar, VU2JFF, Trustee of RIRCOM, for the event.
The Ham Radio Pavilion became a hub of activity as Scouts and Guides engaged with the demonstrations.
Many students were captivated by the operations, learning about radio technology, communication protocols, and the potential of ham radio for both recreation and emergency communication.
Participating in the ham radio activities allowed Scouts to earn an intellectual-based activity award, further incentivizing their involvement.
RIRCOM’s team of volunteers, including VU2JFF, VU2AXL, VU2JQE, VU3LYO, VU3RXW, VU3THX, VU3NHO, VU3OTF, VU3JZT, VU3VMI, VU3ISB, VU3TIU, VU3AQM, and VU2KPR,also provided crucial second-line communication support for the Jamboree’s organizers, ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the event.
Amateur Radio and the Scout Movement in India
Amateur radio, often called ham radio, is a non-commercial communication service where licensed operators use radio equipment.
It allows individuals to connect globally, experiment with technology, and provide vital communication during emergencies.
In India,it is regulated by the Ministry of Communications,and licensed operators, of which there are over 22,000,play important roles in disaster relief, community service, technical experimentation,and fostering international goodwill.
The Scout movement in India recognizes the value of ham radio and encourages Scouts to explore it.Ham radio offers Scouts opportunities to:
Develop communication skills: Scouts learn about radio technology, protocols, and Morse code.
Enhance problem-solving abilities: Setting up and operating a station requires technical skills and troubleshooting.
Serve the community: Ham radio skills can be invaluable during emergencies and community projects.
Promote global citizenship: Connecting with Scouts and hams worldwide fosters understanding.
The BSG organizes training courses and events, including basic courses, practical training, Jamboree on the Air (JOTA), and disaster preparedness training.
These activities offer Scouts numerous benefits, including skill development,personal growth, community engagement, and global awareness.
RIRCOM: A History of Service
RIRCOM has been providing voluntary service activities since 1993, including disaster communication, crowd management, ham radio training and awareness, and technical workshops in schools and colleges.
Their presence at the BSG Diamond Jubilee Jamboree highlighted the importance of amateur radio within the Scout movement and its potential to inspire the next generation of communicators and community leaders.
The success of the Ham Radio Pavilion at the Jamboree is a testament to the growing interest in this valuable activity and its relevance to the Scout movement’s goals of developing well-rounded individuals and responsible citizens.
