A section of the group during the IRCS Nagaland two-day Community First Responder (CFR) Youth Training Programme at the DC Conference Hall, Zunheboto, on June 2. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | June 2
The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Nagaland, in collaboration with the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), conducted a two-day Community First Responder (CFR) Youth Training Programme at the DC Conference Hall, Zunheboto, on June 2.
Speaking as the Guest of Honour, Akhale V Khamo General Secretary, IRCS Nagaland highlighted the history, evolution, and humanitarian mission of the Red Cross Movement. She informed that the movement was born out of the horrors of war in 1859 and formally established in 1863, with its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Recognized under the Geneva Conventions, the Red Cross today operates in nearly 200 countries worldwide.
She further noted that the Indian Red Cross Society was established in 1920, while the Nagaland branch began functioning in 1982. Emphasizing the close connection between disaster management and the Red Cross, Khamo described the organization as one of the most respected humanitarian institutions globally.
“This voluntary organization was founded in 1863 and remains active today because it responds to wars, conflicts, crises, and both natural and man-made disasters. Many organizations come and go, but the Red Cross continues to serve humanity across the world,” she said.
Encouraging participants to become life members and volunteers of the organization, Khamo remarked that while Red Cross volunteers may not receive material rewards, they gain the satisfaction of helping others in need.
“Let us all unite together and build a stronger Red Cross branch in Zunheboto so that wherever we are, we can help those around us. Today's training is about becoming the first to respond during emergencies. Pay close attention, as the knowledge you gain here will serve you throughout your life,” she added.
Addressing the gathering, Dharam Raj, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto and President of IRCS Zunheboto, stressed the need for community-based disaster preparedness. He noted that Nagaland falls under Seismic Zone V, one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the country, making disaster preparedness a necessity rather than an option.
“We may face disasters at any time. Nagaland is in Zone V of the earthquake-prone areas of the country. Therefore, it is our duty to impart such training. The first responder should come from the community itself. It is a great achievement if you can save someone's life,” he said.
The programme was led by Asheto Kiba, Chairman of IRCS Zunheboto, while Akhale V Khamo, General Secretary of IRCS Nagaland, attended as the Guest of Honour. The inaugural session began with an invocation prayer by Agape Z. Chishi, Associate Pastor (Youth), SBCZ. Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Antoly Su-u, Chief Medical Officer, Zunheboto, and Vice President of IRCS Zunheboto, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of building local capacity in disaster response. A vote of thanks was delivered by I. Nikheto Jimomi, Honorary Treasurer of IRCS Zunheboto, while the inaugural programme concluded with a benediction by Nupato Zhimo, Assistant Youth Leader of ZTSBC.
