Camporee 2025, organized by Don Bosco Youth and Educational Services (DBYES), Dimapur, was held from 16 to 20 December 2025 at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Dimapur. The event brought together nearly 750 Scouts and Guides from 22 schools across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur, creating a vibrant platform of unity, discipline, faith, and youthful enthusiasm.
Day 1 – 16 December: Arrival, Registration and Introduction
Participants arrived on the Don Bosco campus and were warmly received, followed by systematic registration and orientation. Rev. Fr. Theotimus Lakra, SDB, Organising Secretary, formally introduced the officials of Camporee 2025. The symbolic handing over of the Scout Whistle to Sir K. S. Charles Keishing, Camp Chief of Camporee 2025, marked the official commencement of the camp, filling the campus with true Scouting spirit.
Under the able and inspiring leadership of the Camp Chief, the Camporee unfolded as a vibrant experience of faith, discipline, leadership, cultural harmony, and Salesian joy, the Camp Chief highlighted the gathering, outlining camp discipline, safety norms, and the true spirit of Scouting. A coordination meeting with Scout Masters and Guide Captains ensured effective planning and teamwork, setting a strong and disciplined foundation for the days ahead.
Day 2 – 17 December: Inauguration & Competitions
The day began with the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Joseph Pampackal, SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Dimapur. In his homily, he emphasized service to God, nation, and humanity as the heart of Scout life.
The Inaugural Programme was graced by Fr. Joseph Pampackal, SDB, as the Chief Guest, who beautifully linked Scouting ideals with Salesian educational spirituality. The hoisting of the National Flag, Bharat Scouts and Guides Flag, and Camporee Flag, followed by a colourful march-past supported by the 15 Sector Assam Rifles, added dignity, discipline, and grandeur to the occasion.
A special highlight of the day was the Camporee Theme Song, which truly brought life, joy, and energy to the gathering. The lyrics, penned by Rev. Fr. Theotimus Lakra, SDB, captured the spirit of unity, service, and Scouting Motto alive. The song was set to music by Sir Cyril Sangma and powerfully rendered by Nangbia Jumpi, leaving a lasting emotional impact and becoming the heartbeat of Camporee 2025.
The day also witnessed vibrant cultural performances, traditional dances, and the felicitation of senior contributors to Scouting. Dr. Johnny Ruangmei, Joint CEO, NSDMA, inspired the youth to dream boldly, live in unity, and uphold the core values of Scouting. The competitions included Pioneering Projects, On-the-Spot Drawing, Choreography, and Quiz Finals.
Day 3 – 18 December: Faith, Culture & Creativity
The day began with the Holy Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, who encouraged the Scouts and Guides to seek true happiness rooted in faith, hope, and service.
The Flag Break Ceremony was graced by Fr. Aelavathara Sebastian, whose motivational address inspired the participants to live the Scout ideals with commitment and courage. The day’s activities included Model Village Inspections, Folk Song Selections, Costume Fashion Show Finals, and Thematic Dance Competitions, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and cultural richness.
Day 4 – 19 December: Campfire & Valedictory
The Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Deli David, Vice Provincial, who reminded the Scouts and Guides that small daily acts of kindness and responsibility reflect the true Scout Law.
The day featured Folk Song Finals, group games, and adventure activities, culminating in a vibrant Grand Campfire and Valedictory Programme, filled with joy, reflection, and celebration.
Winners
- Overall, Champions: St. Thomas School, Sadiya (Assam)
- First Runners-up: Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh)
- Second Runners-up: Don Bosco School, Kheti (Arunachal Pradesh)
Prizes were distributed by the Salesian Fathers and DBYES leadership amidst an atmosphere of joy, appreciation, and gratitude.
Day 5 – 20 December: Conclusion
Camporee 2025 concluded with a solemn Flag Down Ceremony, led by Mr. Lawrence Guria, and handing over the Camporee Flag to Fr. Theotimus Lakra sdb, the Camporee Organising Secretary and with this officially marked the end of the five-day celebration of Scouting. Participants departed with cherished memories, strengthened friendships, and a renewed commitment to the Scout Promise and Law.
Acknowledgement & Gratitude
The resounding success of Camporee 2025 was made possible by the unwavering support of the Provincial and his Council, to Don Bosco Higher Secondary School Community, Dimapur, and the dedicated leadership of Rev. Fr. Nebu Mathew (Rector), Rev. Fr. John Kikon (Principal), Rev. Fr. Daniel Jiaojan, and the DBYES staff.
Special words of gratitude are extended to Rev. Fr. Rajeesh Devassey (Economer), Bro. Biju, Sir Albert Solo, the Training Commissioner of Scouts & Guide Nagaland, Sir Agay Joseph, Mr. Lawrence Guria, the Salesian Cooperators of Dimapur Unit, the Senior Scouts and Guides of DBS Dimapur, and the entire Camporee Organising Team, under the guidance of DBYES Dimapur and Rev. Fr. Theotimus Lakra, SDB, Organising Secretary.
Camporee 2025 stood as a powerful testimony to the Salesian spirit, scouting values, unity in diversity, and youth leadership, leaving behind a rich legacy of inspiration that will continue to guide young hearts for years to come.
