Golden Arrow Certificate for Cubs - Bharat Scouts and Guides
Introduction
The Golden Arrow Certificate is a prestigious award given to Cubs in the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG) who demonstrate exceptional proficiency and dedication. This certificate, accompanied by a special badge, recognizes the achievements of young Cubs who have excelled in their scouting journey.
Age Criteria
To be eligible for the Golden Arrow Certificate, a Cub must meet the following requirements:
- Age Limit: The Cub must not have completed 10 years of age at the time of submitting the Golden Arrow registration form to the concerned Regional Headquarters.
- Advancement Level: The Cub must have achieved the Chaturth Charan, the highest level of advancement for Cubs in the BSG.
- Proficiency Badges: The Cub must have earned a total of six proficiency badges, including:
- One badge from the Tritiya Charan level.
- One badge from the Chaturth Charan level.
- The remaining four badges must be earned from proficiency badge groups not previously earned.
Statement of Holder (SOH)
The Statement of Holder refers to the detailed record of the Cub’s achievements and qualifications that must be documented and verified to qualify for the Golden Arrow Certificate. The SOH includes:
- Personal Details: The Cub’s full name, date of birth, unit name, and contact information.
- Advancement Record: Proof of having completed all levels of Cub advancement, from Pravesh to Chaturth Charan:
- Pravesh: Completed after at least three months as a Cub Aspirant (minimum age 5 years).
- Pratham Charan: Achieved after at least three months as a Pravesh Cub.
- Dwitiya Charan: Achieved after at least three months as a Pratham Charan Cub.
- Tritiya Charan: Achieved after at least nine months as a Dwitiya Charan Cub.
- Chaturth Charan: Achieved after at least nine months as a Tritiya Charan Cub.
- Proficiency Badges: A list of the six proficiency badges earned, specifying:
- The badge earned at the Tritiya Charan level.
- The badge earned at the Chaturth Charan level.
- The four additional badges from different proficiency groups.
- Details of the independent examiners who tested each badge, appointed by the Badge Committee of the Local or District Association.
- Unit Leader’s Endorsement: A statement from the Cub Master (who must be advanced trained and hold a valid warrant) confirming the Cub’s eligibility and readiness for the award. The Unit Leader cannot act as an independent examiner for their own unit.
- Re-test Camp: The Cub must attend a re-test camp organized by the State Association under the supervision of the State Organising Commissioner (Scouts). This camp verifies the Cub’s skills and knowledge up to the Chaturth Charan level.
- National Verification: The National Headquarters staff may conduct additional testing before the award presentation ceremony. Cubs not meeting the required standards may be rejected.
How to Fill the Application Form
The application form for the Golden Arrow Certificate is a standardized document provided by the National Headquarters of the Bharat Scouts and Guides. Below are the steps and guidelines for filling out the form:
- Obtain the Form:
- The Golden Arrow application form is available for purchase from the Equipment Department of the National Headquarters.
- A set of four identical forms is provided, each serving a specific purpose:
- First copy: Retained by the Cub’s unit/group.
- Second copy: Kept at the District Office.
- Third copy: Submitted to the State Headquarters (SHQ).
- Fourth copy: Recommended by the SHQ and sent to the National Headquarters.
- Complete the Form:
- Personal Information: Full name of the Cub, date of birth, unit name and address, and contact details of the Cub Master.
- Advancement Details: List the dates of achieving Pravesh, Pratham Charan, Dwitiya Charan, Tritiya Charan, and Chaturth Charan. Attach copies of certificates or logbook entries as proof.
- Proficiency Badges: List the six proficiency badges earned, including badge name, level, date earned, and name/designation of the independent examiner. Ensure the four additional badges are from different proficiency groups.
- Cub Master’s Recommendation: The Cub Master must provide a signed statement confirming the Cub’s eligibility, including their warrant number and training status.
- State Organising Commissioner’s Endorsement: The form must be reviewed and signed by the State Organising Commissioner (Scouts) after the re-test camp.
- Form Submission Guidelines:
- Original Forms Only: Photocopies or forms with overwriting will not be accepted.
- Complete Documentation: Attach all required supporting documents, such as proficiency badge certificates, advancement records, and re-test camp participation certificate (if available).
- Distribution: Submit the first copy to the unit records, second to the District Office, third to the State Headquarters, and the fourth, with SHQ recommendation, to the National Headquarters.
- Deadline: Check with the National Headquarters for the current submission deadline.
- Verification and Approval:
- The State Chief Commissioner recommends eligible Cubs to the Chief National Commissioner, who is the final authority for granting the Golden Arrow Badge and Certificate.
- The National Headquarters may conduct additional testing to ensure the Cub meets the required standards.
- Upon approval, the Golden Arrow Badge and Certificate are presented by the President of Bharat Scouts and Guides, and the certificate is signed by the Chief National Commissioner.
- Record Keeping:
- Units, districts, and states must maintain a separate register and file for Chaturth Charan certificates and Golden Arrow applications for future verification.
- A logbook documenting the Cub’s activities, achievements, and participation in the re-test camp should be maintained and submitted if requested.
Additional Information
- Badge Description: The Golden Arrow Badge features a blue background with a golden border, a prominent golden arrow, and the Bharat Scouts and Guides emblem in the center. It is worn on the center of the left sleeve for Cubs.
- Re-test Camp: Organized by the State Association, this camp ensures that Cubs demonstrate the skills and knowledge required for Chaturth Charan and the Golden Arrow Badge.
- No Limit on Recommendations: There is no restriction on the number of eligible Cubs a Cub Master can recommend for the Golden Arrow Badge from their unit.
- Contact for Forms: For application forms or further clarification, contact the Equipment Department at the Bharat Scouts and Guides National Headquarters, Lakshmi Mazumdar Bhawan, 16, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Indraprastha Estate, New Delhi – 110002.
The Golden Arrow Certificate is a symbol of excellence and commitment for Cubs in the Bharat Scouts and Guides. By adhering to the guidelines and ensuring accurate documentation, Cubs can achieve this prestigious award and inspire others in their scouting journey.