Governor of Nagaland and President of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch (IRCSN), Nand Kishore Yadav, on Wednesday called for strengthening humanitarian services and community resilience, saying the role of the Red Cross has become more crucial than ever amid increasing natural disasters, public health emergencies and climate-related challenges.
Addressing the ceremonial function of the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch, at Dr Imkongliba Ao Hall, Lok Bhavan, the Governor described the Red Cross as a symbol of hope, compassion and selfless service that has served humanity for more than a century.
Guided by its Fundamental Principles, he said, the organisation has continued to reach vulnerable communities with dedication and dignity. He commended the Nagaland State Branch for its sustained efforts in disaster preparedness and response, first-aid training, health awareness, voluntary blood donation, youth engagement and community welfare.
The Governor also acknowledged the commitment of volunteers, district branches, members and partner organisations in advancing the Society’s humanitarian mission.
Expressing satisfaction over the strengthening of district units and growing youth participation, he said the real strength of the Red Cross lies in vibrant grassroots institutions and dedicated volunteers who are always ready to respond in times of crisis.
Highlighting the growing challenges posed by natural disasters, climate change, substance abuse and public health emergencies, Yadav stressed the need to enhance disaster preparedness, strengthen community resilience, promote voluntary blood donation, expand first-aid training and continue reaching out to the most vulnerable sections of society.
Urging members to reaffirm their commitment to humanitarian service, he congratulated everyone associated with the Nagaland State Branch and wished the Annual General Meeting success.
Nagaland Chief Minister and Vice-President of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch, Neiphiu Rio also lauded the organisation’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and its significant contributions towards alleviating human suffering and serving vulnerable communities.
Describing the Red Cross as a beacon of hope, compassion and selfless service, Rio said the organisation has consistently upheld its Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality while making meaningful contributions in public health, disaster preparedness, emergency response and community welfare.
He noted that the Society has positively impacted countless lives across Nagaland through disaster response, blood donation drives, first-aid training, health awareness campaigns, youth engagement and humanitarian assistance to vulnerable communities.
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The Chief Minister particularly appreciated the joint initiative of the Indian Red Cross Society and the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) in implementing the Community First Responders (CFR) training programme, describing it as an excellent example of collaboration between government agencies and humanitarian organisations.
He said the programme, already implemented across all 12 districts of Nagaland, equips participants with vital first-aid skills, disaster preparedness knowledge and emergency response techniques. Given Nagaland’s vulnerability to earthquakes, landslides and other natural disasters, he said community-based preparedness is essential.
Rio said the initiative is creating a network of trained volunteers capable of providing immediate assistance during emergencies, helping save lives and minimise the impact of disasters before professional rescue teams arrive. He encouraged the Red Cross and NSDMA to further expand the programme so that every district, village and community in the State can benefit from trained volunteers.
Reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to supporting disaster preparedness, voluntary blood donation, first-aid education, youth volunteerism and community resilience, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of continued collaboration among government agencies, civil society organisations and humanitarian institutions to address emerging challenges.
He also commended the Governor, the Managing Committee, General Secretary, district branches, volunteers and members for their dedication in advancing the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross in Nagaland.
Earlier, Dr Johnny K Ruangmei, Joint CEO of NSDMA and Managing Committee Member of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland, said disasters do not discriminate between communities or livelihoods. Referring to the devastating landslides that struck Mon district on July 19, he said people from different communities came together to support those affected, reflecting the true spirit of humanity.
He appreciated the coordinated efforts of volunteers, government departments and various organisations involved in rescue and relief operations and reaffirmed the Red Cross’ continued support to the government in disaster response, healthcare, first-aid, emergency preparedness and community resilience. He also stressed the need for strengthening volunteer training, particularly in search and rescue operations.
General Secretary of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch, Akhale V. Khamo, presented the Society’s annual report.
During the meeting, the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch, also made a contribution to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
