Jowai: Veteran educator and scoutmaster Ohiwot Laloo from West Jaintia Hills has been awarded the prestigious Silver Star Award of the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG) at a ceremony in Lucknow, officials said on Saturday.
Laloo becomes the first recipient from the district’s male (Scouts) wing to earn the honour, which recognises “special, distinguished and continuous dedicated service” to the scouting movement.
Associated with the BSG since 1979, Laloo is widely regarded for his work as a teacher, scoutmaster and first-aid trainer certified by the Indian Red Cross Society and St John Ambulance India.
He currently serves as district commissioner (Scouts) and state commissioner (Headquarters) in the BSG, and is also the district secretary of the Indian Red Cross Society, West Jaintia Hills.
Over the decades, he has been honoured with several recognitions, including the Medal of Merit, Long Service Medallion and the District Teacher Award.
Officials credited Laloo with strengthening the scouting movement in the district by initiating key programmes such as the Open Unit in Jowai, the first Meghalaya Bharal Scouts and Guides Sports Meet and annual winter camps for district scouts and guides.
He has also played a crucial role in establishing schools in remote villages of West Jaintia Hills.
Laloo’s sustained contributions at the national, state and district levels led to his selection for the Silver Star Award, one of the organisation’s highest honours, officials added.
