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.