KOHIMA — Nagaland
Governor, La. Ganesan, on Wednesday urged the Red Cross Society members to move
forward together in unity with a mission to serve humanity and bring solace to
the suffering.
Addressing the members of Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland
branch during its 38th annual general body meeting (AGBM) at Dr. Imkongliba
Memorial Hall, Raj Bhavan in Kohima on Wednesday, Ganesan asserted that the
organisation has been a pillar of hope, service and compassion since its
establishment in 1982.
The governor, who is also the president of IRC Nagaland
State Branch, pointed out that the annual gathering is not merely a meeting but
a celebration of the relentless efforts and dedication of the members,
volunteers and supporters who have worked tirelessly to make a difference in
the communities.
He commended the efforts of the Red Cross for the milestones
achievement despite the numerous challenges including natural calamities and
conflicts. He stated that the state unit of Indian Red Cross Society had
provided humanitarian aid and support where it was needed most.
“Social service transcends the notion of duty and enters the
realm of giving—giving our time, our resources, and our compassion to uplift
those in need. It is this spirit of giving that forms the very essence of the
Red Cross and unites us in a common cause,” Ganesan said.
Stating that the acts of kindness and selflessness shown by
the members and volunteers were remarkable, he called upon the members to
recommit themselves in order to bring about positive difference in the lives of
others.
The governor also hailed the leadership of the general
secretary, Akhale V Khamo, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental
in advancing the mission in establishing new branches in Shamator, Niuland and
Chümoukedima as well as sub-branches in Jalukie and Peren.
The president also commended the contributions of Helena
Yepthomi, whose dedication continues to inspire and strengthen the fabric of
the organisation.
Setting the vision ahead, Ganesan stated that the state
branch is faced with new opportunities and challenges. One of the key
priorities, according to him, is the proposed rehabilitation centre for
alcoholics and drug addicts in Kohima. In this regard, he urged the
stakeholders, particularly the corporate organisations to partner with the Red
Cross Society in bringing the vision to fruition through their Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR) programmes.
Maintaining that the Red Cross Society is a symbol of
neutrality and impartiality, which transcends all barriers of race, religion
and politics, he reminded the members that it is their duty to uphold those
principles as they serve humanity with empathy and determination.
He also called upon the members to also focus on
strengthening the disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, building
capacity in the branches and encouraging youth engagement in their activities
to ensure the sustainability of the mission.
The governor further called upon each member to continue
their noble work with renewed energy and a sense of purpose so as to build the
legacy of service and ensured that the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State
Branch, remains a beacon of hope for those in need.
A Blood App developed by Rishav Sethi and his sister Divya
was also launched on the occasion by the governor.
On the occasion, Helena Yepthomi along with the Voluntary
Blood Donors’ Association Nagaland (VBDAN) and Peren district were honoured for
their exemplary services during the 2023-24.
The welcome address was delivered by Sawathang Kez, vice
chairman of Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland State Branch, while the general
secretary report was presented by Akhale V Khamo.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by
Dr. Nganshimeren, managing committee member of IRCSN.
