The Award In Action—Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior

 Report by Suman Choudhary, IAYP Coordinator, Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior

“TO WALK IN NATURE IS TO WITNESS A THOUSAND OF MIRACLES” On the 5th of May, 41 Award participants of Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya with 4 escorts, Ms Suman Choudhary (IAYP Coordinator), Ms Vaishali Rathi, Ms Shubhankshi Mukhariya and Mr Vaibhav Bhagat started their journey to Kullu Manali via bus. On reaching the YHAI camp, there was a briefing session conducted for the participants by the YHAI camp coordinators. The next morning, after breakfast, our young people went for a river crossing at Vyaas River, enjoying the activity thoroughly. In the afternoon, they had an orientation session with the resource person Mr. Deepak Taunk. The day finished with a banging performance at the campfire by SKVians. Award participants woke up to a beautiful view of mountains and with the excitement of starting the 11 kms. trek. During the trek, all participants motivated each other and pushed themselves to reach the next point and camp. During the trek, our Award participants made friends with the mules! After trekking for 7 hours straight, we finally reached Rumshu camp. With the anticipation to finally see the snowfall, our young people started their trek early in the morning. While trekking, they faced a lot of problems like slippery and muddy ways, steep paths and rain. Finally, after a lot of struggle they reached the Ghankulahdi camp. Here they got a perfect view of the Himalayas. They were welcomed by heavy snowfall and refreshment drinks. There was no electricity at this camp and by the time it was 8, our young people were asleep with the dreams of conquering the snowy top of the Chandrakhani base camp the next morning. The Chanderkhani pass trek requires walking through trees like Blue Pine, Deodar, Walnut, Golden Oak, and Wild Cherry. The trek offers a wide view of the Kullu region and the cloud touching peaks. The place had an amazing view of the snowy mountains. After a lot of struggle, Award participants reached the top before the estimated time. After reaching the top, they had their lunch and maggi break while enjoying the breathtaking view of the Himalayas. They could not resist participating in the snow sliding adventure activity! It was time to travel back to the Ghankulahdi camp. It was the final day. With heavy hearts, we said goodbyes to the guides and support staff and started our journey from Ghankuladhi camp to the Rumshu camp. Overall, Award participants not only learnt to adapt in extreme weather conditions but also learnt how to survive with minimal amount of luxury provided to them. Thank you IAYP “The International Award for Young People” for providing the platform to our young leaders to build up their confidence through the adventurous journey. They developed leadership skills, courage, punctuality, honesty and togetherness, which are very important for young people in this sensitive new world.

The Award In Action—Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala

Report by Dr. Ekta Dhawan, Principal, Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala.

Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala exclusively designed a Three-day Adventure Journey for 80 Award Participants as part of The International Award for Young People (IAYP Programme). The AJ was organized by Adventure Sports Company, Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh which aimed to offer young people a unique opportunity to engage in thrilling adventure activities, learn new skills, foster teamwork, and create lasting memories. Award Participants actively participated in various activities over the course of three days, building resilience, self-confidence, and an appreciation for nature. 

Day 1: The first day commenced with the participants’s arrival at the picturesque campsite. They were warmly greeted by the camp instructors and immediately engaged in an orientation session, emphasizing safety guidelines and the importance of teamwork. Following the orientation, young people were divided into groups and initiated their first adventure activity - river crossing. Utilizing ropes, pulleys, and harnesses, participants navigated the challenging river terrain, showcasing their collaborative spirit and determination. 

After a nutritious lunch, they immersed themselves in a series of team-building activities. Through trust exercises, obstacle courses, and relay races, they developed effective communication skills, built trust amongst one another, and honed their problem-solving abilities. The day concluded with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the adventures yet to come. 

Day 2: The second day commenced with a rejuvenating yoga session, fostering a calm and focused mindset among the participants. Energized and ready for new challenges, they embarked on a memorable trekking experience through a picturesque forest trail. Amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature, they encountered various flora and fauna, heightening their appreciation for the environment and instilling a sense of responsibility towards its preservation. 

After lunch, Award Participants were introduced to the exhilarating activities of rock climbing and rappelling. Ascending the rock wall and descending with confidence using ropes and harnesses, they faced their fears and experienced the thrill of conquering new heights. The instructors provided guidance and support, encouraging the participants to push their limits and discover their inner strength. As the day transitioned into the evening, a bonfire was organized, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. Participants engaged in soulful singing and energetic dancing around the fire, fostering bonds and creating cherished memories. 

Day 3: The final day commenced with invigorating morning exercises, setting a positive tone for the day. Following the exercise session, young people embarked on a visit to a temple situated at a high altitude. The awe-inspiring panoramic views and serene surroundings left an indelible mark on their hearts, reminding them of the beauty and tranquility of nature.

Returning from the temple visit, young people actively participated in camping activities, including pitching tents, building fires, and cooking meals. These tasks not only imparted essential survival skills but also fostered teamwork and self-reliance. Additionally, they also undertook a tree plantation activity, promoting environmental awareness and sustainability within the local community. 

As the adventure camp drew to a close, young people of BLPS packed their bags with bittersweet emotions, bidding farewell to the campsite and reflecting on the transformative Adventurous Journey they had experienced. This journey not only provided thrilling adventures but also served as a catalyst for personal growth and self-realization. Award Participants returned to their daily lives with a newfound perspective, equipped with enhanced resilience, improved problem-solving skills, and a deep sense of responsibility towards society and the environment. This adventure journey proved to be an incredible opportunity for the students of Bawa Lalvani Public School. Through immersive adventure activities, team-building exercises, and an appreciation for nature, the students developed crucial learnings for life! 

Thank you IAYP!

The Award in Action - OAC participant Ezekiel Baskar

Report by Ezekiel Baskar, OAC - Bronze Level Award participant.

My journey with The international Award for Young People has been phenomenal. Under the guidance of Sir Bivujit Mukhoty, I was able to successfully complete the Bronze Level adventure journey, famously called the A.J., with 25 participants of Raphael Centre at Maldevta Camp, Dehradun, from 26th to 29th March 2023. It was indeed encouraging to assist special kids and help them with various tasks like rope climbing. Learning, helping, and working as a team were all aspects I could imprint on my AJ journey with IAYP.

We went through four days consisting of the preparation journey, practice journey, and qualifying journey across the Pohrigerwal Himalayan region. Understanding the abilities of the participants, addressing their task requirements, and enhancing motivational norms for positive outcomes were all lessons IAYP taught me to work on during the AJ.

It was truly memorable to carry forward and inspiring to live with. I look forward to inspiring many others and carrying on the life lessons of IAYP throughout my journey.

The Award in Action - Dyal Singh Public School, Jagadhri

 Report by Khushal Bali, Silver Level Award participant from Dyal Singh Public School, Jagadhri.

Unveiling the Beauty and Adventure of the Nag Tibba Trek.

Introduction:
Embarking on my first-ever trekking experience to Nag Tibba was a monumental moment in my life as a participant of The International Award for Young People (IAYP). This awe-inspiring trek spanning three days and two nights was not only an adventure of a lifetime but also an opportunity to create lasting memories, forge new friendships, and acquire valuable life lessons. Join me as I recount my exhilarating journey through the majestic landscapes of Nag Tibba.

Day 1: A Thrilling Start (10th May 2023)
As I set foot in the pristine surroundings of Nag Tibba, a surge of excitement coursed through my veins. Accompanied by fellow trekkers, guides and experienced instructors such as Harjeet Hundal and Subhash Sharma (our Award Leaders), we embarked on our trek with great enthusiasm.

TOTAL DISTANCE-16 KM approximately
ELEVATION- 3033m

The initial leg of the journey was challenging, with steep ascents and rugged terrains testing our stamina. As we trekked through the mesmerizing Bughyal ridges, the expansive vistas unfolded, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and majestic Himalayan peaks that greeted us along the way made every struggle worthwhile. The serenity of the dense forests, the sweet scent of pine, and the melodious chirping of birds truly immersed us in nature's embrace.

Day 2: A Lesson of Perseverance (11th May 2023)
The second day of the Nag Tibba trek presented us with new challenges and valuable lessons. As we ascended higher, the air grew thinner, and the temperatures dropped significantly. Battling the physical demands of the trek, we discovered the power of perseverance and determination. The camaraderie among our group grew stronger as we encouraged and supported each other through the toughest stretches. The reward for our efforts came in the form of the mesmerizing sunrise view from the Nag Tibba summit. The golden rays illuminating the snow-capped peaks left us in awe, reminding us of the beauty that lies beyond our comfort zones.
We were amazed by the incredible diversity of plants and animals as we climbed to higher altitudes. The forests were filled with vibrant flowers and tall oak trees. We were serenaded by the melodies of various birds that call this region home. Our instructors taught us about the medicinal properties of the natural herbs that grew abundantly in this pristine environment.

Day 3: Reflection (12th May 2023)
On the final day of our trek, we descended from the summit of Nag Tibba, but our hearts were heavy with a bittersweet feeling. We had formed deep bonds with our fellow trekkers, our spirits remained high as we reminisced about the incredible memories we had made together.

The trek had not only taught us about the importance of teamwork and resilience, but it had also opened our eyes to the wonders of nature and the need to protect it. As we bid adieu to Nag Tibba, we pledged to carry the lessons and memories with us, cherishing them forever. We marveled at the top-notch services provided by the trekking company, ensuring our safety, comfort, and seamless organization throughout the expedition. Their expertise and attention to detail enhanced our overall experience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the wonders of Nag Tibba.

CLEANLINESS DRIVE
The trekkers team that embarked on the Nag Tibba expedition conducted a successful cleanliness drive during our return journey. We actively collected discarded water bottles and other waste materials both at Pantwari Village and Kempty Falls. With great dedication, we brought the collected bottles back to our school garden, promoting environmental awareness and contributing to a cleaner and greener community. This initiative aligns with the principles of The International Award for Young People (IAYP), fostering responsible citizenship and sustainable practices.

Conclusion: A Journey of a Lifetime
Embarking on my first-ever trek to Nag Tibba as a participant of IAYP (Silver Level) was not just an adventure; it was a transformative experience. Over three days and two nights, I faced challenging terrains, forged new friendships, and absorbed the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayan peaks. From the initial thrill of the journey to the lessons in perseverance each moment left a lasting impression. The trek taught me the value of pushing beyond limits, appreciating nature, and embracing the unknown with open arms. The memories and lessons from Nag Tibba will forever be etched in my heart, reminding me of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead in life's adventures.

~Khushal Bali
Dyal Singh Public School, Jagadhri

Watch videos of this journey of Award Participants from Dyal Singh Public School, Jagadhri here:

https://youtu.be/d5ANpM7Ydm4

AND

https://youtu.be/hOv5216egwI

The Award in Action - Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala

 Report of Street Play Titled "Save Earth Save Life" by Award Participants of Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala

Theme: Earth Day

Only in the minds of young children may significant changes in humanity's future be effected!

Audiences are profoundly affected by theatrical narrative, and in its street manifestation, it transcends barriers of class, religion, and social class. The students at BLPS who are pursuing The International Award for Young People have chosen to take their battle against "Civic Sense and Social Awareness" on the street through some theatrical attempts, and this is precisely the argument that they are making.

To raise public awareness of numerous environmental issues, the young actors presented a street play titled SAVE EARTH SAVE LIFE with the objective of spreading awareness about the need to protect and preserve our planet. The theme of the performance was “Earth Day” which aimed to reach out to as many people as possible to create a positive impact on the environment. Street Play is a potent weapon that can transform both the current and future generations' mentalities.

Young BLPians began their preparations for the performance several weeks before Earth Day. They held several brainstorming sessions to come up with ideas for the script and the overall theme of the performance. They also worked on the costumes and props, making sure that they were eco-friendly and made from recycled materials.

In front of a sizable audience, the kids presented the play in Jallow Khana, New Sabji Mandi, and Sheikhupur Road. The play was divided into several acts, each one focusing on a different aspect of environmental conservation. They highlighted the importance of reducing waste, conserving water, and planting trees. The young people also emphasized the need to reduce carbon emissions and the use of fossil fuels.

The theater performance of young artists was well received by the audience since they succeeded in conveying their message. It’s heartening to know that Award participants received positive feedback from several members of the audience, who appreciated their endeavors to create awareness about the need to protect the environment. The audience was moved and pledged to protect the planet and take appropriate action.

The performance was a successful initiative towards spreading awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. Young BLPians were able to reach out to a large number of people and inspire them to take action to protect the planet. We are sure that their efforts will create a positive impact on the environment and encourage others to join us in our mission to save MOTHER EARTH!

The International Award for Young People is encouraging our young people to take up such initiatives and promoting environmental conservation. Such efforts by young people are crucial in creating awareness about environmental issues and motivating others to take action towards a sustainable future!

Thank you IAYP!

Report by:
Dr. Ekta Dhawan
Principal
Bawa Lalvani Public School, Kapurthala