Morung Express News
Kohima | May 8
The Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch commemorated the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8 at the Conference Hall Red Cross Complex under the theme ‘Less Known Red Cross Stories’. L.L Doungel, IPS, Director General of Police, Nagaland graced the occasion as the chief guest.
In his Welcome address, Dr. Kepelhusie Terhüja, General Secretary, IRCSN, gave a brief introduction of Henry Dunant and the formation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Red Crescent Movement in 1863. In his book ‘Memory of Solferino’, reminded Terhüja, Henry Dunant revealed the horror and consequences of war. Dr. Terhüja stated how the book influenced and expounded the origins of the International Humanitarian Laws.
Stressing on Dunant’s Calvinist background which had a huge influence in his humanitarian works, L.L Doungel cited how the Christianity background of Nagas have also helped in reducing the ravages of conflict. The significance of Red Cross in society and history was highlighted where Doungel stressed that Durant’s contribution especially his book on ‘A memory of Solferino’ strongly impacted the international leaders and community and led to any awareness on the ravages and consequences of war. Because of the formation of the Red Cross and the signing of the Geneva Convention, Doungel pointed out that today although war was not prevented, the ravages of war has been mitigated.
Doungel, who impressed on the application of the Red Cross in the Naga context, aid “Unless we are able to translate it into local relevance, it may not be of much use. We have a lot of differences mostly arising out of the difference in communities but here too, although we do not have any regulations, I feel that there are areas where we can as individuals and communities also can work.”
Citing the example of the recently held Moatsü celebration in Mokokchung where Angamis were invited, Doungel stated that such initiatives needs to be introduced among communities and that the spirit of the Red Cross needs to be imbibed among individuals and communities.
A prayer was invoked by Rev. A.S Vaosok, Pastor Tangkhul Baptist Kohima while the welcome addres was delivered by Dr. Kepelhusie Terhüja, General Secretary, IRCSN.
Students of Ministers’ Hill Baptist Higher Secondary School and Rev. Dr. Neiiezhü Usou memorial school, Kohima performed the spectacular rendition of the song “To Believe”. Students of Little Flower Higher Secondary School, Kohima also performed ‘Heal the World’. The program was chaired by Abeni TCK, Chairperson, IRCSN and the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Neiphi Kire, Member, MC IRCSN.
