“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle
Delhi Public School RK Puram hosted the Class VIII Scholar Badge Ceremony for the academic session 2025-26 on 30th October 2026 in the Audio-Visual Hall, celebrating the academic and co-curricular achievements of students.
The ceremony was graced by the esteemed Chief Guest, Dr Hari Krishna Paliwal, Member of the DPS Society and a distinguished administrator whose illustrious career spans across academia, public administration and governance. He joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1981 and has held several senior administrative positions in the Governments of Uttar Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh, including that of Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh. He currently serves as the Advisor to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, with the rank of Cabinet Minister, and is also an accomplished horticulturist and author.
The ceremony began with the auspicious lighting of the lamp by the distinguished Chief Guest, along with the Principal, Mr Anil Kumar; the Vice Principals, Mr Naresh Miglani, Mr Anil Kathuria, Mr Mukesh Kumar and Ms Rashmi Malhotra; the Headmistresses, Dr Anubha Gopal and Ms Vandana Chandhoke and the Head – Academics IBDP, Mr Ajay Goel.
The programme in the AVH commenced with the students and parents extending a warm welcome to the esteemed dignitaries, accompanied by resounding applause. A soulful Western music performance was then presented that celebrated the universal language of music and its power to bring humanity closer through the message of peace and togetherness.
The Principal addressed the gathering and welcomed the Chief Guest with a standing ovation. He commended the students for their outstanding academic and co-curricular achievements and emphasized that the current accomplishments lay a vital foundation for the critical four years ahead in their academic and professional journeys. Drawing from Jim Collins’ research, he shared the three key pillars of excellence: discovering one’s passion, dedicating at least 10,000 hours of hard work and maintaining unwavering focus. He further emphasised that when passion and hard work come together, success becomes a sustainable pursuit. Concluding his address, he remarked that the idea of excellence lies at the heart of DPS RK Puram, encouraging students to remain dedicated, pursue their passions and continue striving for greater achievements.
Thereafter, a beautiful dance performance was presented which showcased German folk traditions and radiated cheerfulness, vibrancy and cultural charm. The colourful presentation, complemented by the rhythmic footwork and exuberant expressions of the dancers, created an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
The much-awaited Scholar Badge Ceremony followed, conducted by the Class VIII representatives, Ms Mahima Goel and Ms Priyanka Yadav. A total number of 179 awards were presented, including 129 Blue Badges, 41 Second Green Badges and 9 First Green Badges in recognition of the outstanding academic performances of the students. Additionally, 32 Red Badges were also presented for exemplary achievements in co-curricular domains which included 1 Red Blazer, 14 Sports Pins, 11 Co-curricular Pins and 6 Red Ties along with 8 Certificates for 100% attendance.
The Chief Guest, Dr Hari Krishna Paliwal, then addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude to the Principal and congratulating the teachers and students on the cultural presentation. Reflecting on the rich legacy of DPS RK Puram, he emphasised that while academic and co-curricular accomplishments are important, the ultimate purpose of education lies in shaping individuals of strong character and sound values. He urged students to consciously cultivate kindness, integrity and moral responsibility. Drawing upon the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, he highlighted the idea that the fruits of one’s actions are determined by one’s deeds and efforts. He encouraged the students to recognise and nurture the goodness within themselves and others, and to lead lives rooted in compassion, righteousness and strong moral values.
The ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by the Headmistress of Classes VI-VIII, Ms Vandana Chandhoke, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed Chief Guest for gracing the occasion. She also acknowledged the Principal’s student-centric initiatives and thanked him for his continued commitment to their holistic development. She also recognised the parents as steadfast pillars of support in their children’s journey, and conveyed her appreciation to the Vice Principals for their invaluable guidance and encouragement. She concluded by commending the teachers and students for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the successful conduct of the ceremony.
The event concluded with the patriotic rendition of the National Anthem, as the students, teachers and parents reflected on a morning that celebrated the students’ achievements and the hard work behind them.