Founder President

Dr. Dikpal Keshari Baidya — Canada

Founder President, International Scout Volunteer Group (ISVG)

Dr. Dikpal Keshari Baidya is the Founder President of the International Scout Volunteer Group (ISVG) and one of the seven Scout leaders whose international interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic led to the formation of the organisation. Contemporary records identify him as representing Canada in the original group and later as ISVG President based in Toronto.

The idea that developed into ISVG began at a time when Scout leaders and volunteers around the world faced unprecedented restrictions on physical meetings and international activities. Social media and online communication created an alternative space for experienced leaders to remain connected, exchange knowledge and learn from one another. Dr. Baidya was part of this founding exchange and subsequently played a central leadership role as the informal network developed into a wider international platform.

Under this founding vision, ISVG expanded the initial exchange of Scouting knowledge into online conferences, training, international networking and voluntary engagement involving participants from an increasing number of countries. The organisation also developed the longer-term aspiration of creating opportunities for lifelong education and international knowledge exchange.

As ISVG moves into its next stage of development, the founding principle remains relevant: people from different countries can learn from one another, share accumulated experience and use their knowledge in service to society. ISVG now seeks to carry this principle forward by connecting the experience of Scout leaders with that of professionals, specialists, educators, volunteers and active or retired experts across generations.