Minister for school education C.M. Chang addressing World Red Cross Day in Kohima on May 8. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima: Nagaland along with the rest of the world today observed World Red Cross Day here under the theme “My Red Cross Story to mark the birth anniversary of Jean Henry Dunant, the founder of Red Cross.
Speaking on the occasion, minister for school education C.M. Chang said Red Cross has always been in the forefront in rendering relief promptly and speedily wherever and whenever disaster strikes, transcending all barriers of nationality, race, religion and language.
“One significant aspect is the fast pace at which co-ordinate efforts have been made to minimize loss of life and suffering of the victims,” he said adding that Red Cross undertakes a number of activities such as disaster relief, disaster preparedness, various community and welfare programmes.
Red Cross movement founded by Henry Dunant with a desire for improved care for wounded soldiers in wartime has now resulted in rendering humanitarian service worldwide drawing millions of volunteers and members to carry out its missions and programmes.
The Red Cross movement was born out of a desire to develop and assist without any discrimination and its endeavor to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found, the minister said adding that its purpose is to protect life and health, respect for human beings, to promote mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace among all people.
The minister said that he was impressed by the varied community service provided by the Red Cross members in bringing about joy to the less fortunate people in the community.
He also congratulated all for playing good role models for others “which will inspire them in helping to build a more caring and compassionate community.”
The minister also stated that Red Cross movement is guided by the seven fundamental principles with just one objective: “to help those who suffer without discrimination and this contribute to peace in the world. The seven fundamental principles include; humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universally signify the principled action by the society.
The minister also lauded the Nagaland State Branch Red Cross Society, saying that it has always been active investors of human services for the assistance and development of weaker sections and communities on voluntary basis.
The minister also gave away prizes to the winners of painting and essay writing competition for junior and youth Red Cross respectively in commemoration of the Red Cross Day. Painting: Ist- Vingunuo Mepfhü-o, G. Rio HSS Kohima, 2nd- Ashong, G. Rio HSS Kohima, 3rd- Kevisevol Thore, St. John School Merhülietsa. Essay: Ist- Neiketounuo Kiso, Kohima Science College Jotsoma, 2nd- Esther Lohe and 3rd- Dzuze Zao both from St. Joseph College, Jakhama.
Earlier, Abeni TCK, chairperson Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland state branch presided over the function.
Welcome address was delivered by C.R. Lotha, member MC, IRCSN while vote of thanks was proposed by IRCSN general secretary Dr. Kepelhusie Therhüja.
JRC Unit, St. John School Kohima and students of School of Nursing NHAK also presented special songs.
Kiphire: Kiphire district today observed World Red Cross day at the Conference Hall of the Deputy Commissioner where Kiphire DC Neposo Thelu was the guest of honor.
The DC while addressing the gathering declared that he would sponsor a sum of Rs. 5000 to any elderly person who is a member of IRCS and writes good article on elderly life as prize money on Elderly Day this year. He asked the gathering not just to be a beneficiary but also to contribute to the cause of humanity and live life to the fullest with satisfaction.
The DC also launched JRC Unit of Loyola School. Calling upon the JRC Unit of Loyola School, the DC advised to be dedicated in duties keeping in mind the fundamental principles of IRCS.
Lipichem, former hony. Secy IRCS Kiphire branch shared on the theme 'My Red Cross Story'. Tsointhe Hony Secy gave activists report and the plan of the Kiphire Branch. JYRC Loyola School presented special song. Caroline chaired the program and Thomas proposed vote of thanks.