Nagaland Governor calls on Red Cross to reaffirm humanitarian commitment

Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 29

Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Wednesday called upon the members of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch to reaffirm their commitment to humanitarian service.

Addressing the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch at Lok Bhavan Kohima, Yadav, who is also president of the state Red Cross branch called for strengthening humanitarian service and community resilience.

He described the Indian Red Cross Society as a symbol of hope, compassion and selfless service for over a century. He said that, guided by the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross, the organisation has continued to serve vulnerable communities with dedication and dignity.

Yadav commended the Nagaland State Branch for its sustained humanitarian efforts in disaster preparedness and response, first aid, health awareness, voluntary blood donation, youth engagement and community welfare.

He acknowledged the dedication and commitment of its volunteers, members, district branches and partners in advancing the Society's humanitarian mission.

Expressing satisfaction over the strengthening of district branches and the growing participation of youth in humanitarian activities, the Governor said that the strength of the Red Cross lies in vibrant local institutions and committed volunteers who are always prepared to serve communities in times of need.

Highlighting the increasing challenges posed by natural disasters, public health emergencies, climate change, substance abuse and other humanitarian concerns, the Governor stressed that the role of the Red Cross has become more important than ever.

He called for enhanced preparedness, greater resilience, promotion of voluntary blood donation, expansion of first-aid training and continued outreach to those most in need.

RCS- a beacon of hope
Nagaland Chief Minister and Vice President, IRCS, Nagaland State Branch, Dr Neiphiu Rio congratulated the Red Cross fraternity for its unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and lauded the organisation's remarkable contributions in alleviating human suffering and serving vulnerable communities.

Describing the Indian Red Cross Society as a beacon of hope, compassion and selfless service, the CM said the organisation has consistently upheld its Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality while making significant contributions in public health, disaster preparedness, emergency response and community welfare.

Highlighting the Red Cross’ work in Nagaland, he said the Society has rendered invaluable services through disaster response, voluntary blood donation drives, first aid training, health awareness campaigns, youth engagement initiatives and humanitarian assistance to vulnerable communities, positively impacting countless lives across the State.

He placed on record his appreciation for the joint initiative of the Nagaland State Branch, and the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) in implementing the Community First Responders (CFR) training programme.

He described the collaboration as an excellent example of how government institutions and humanitarian organisations can work together to build safer and more resilient communities.

Expressing satisfaction that the programme has already been successfully implemented across all twelve districts of Nagaland, the Chief Minister said it equips participants with essential first aid skills, disaster preparedness knowledge and emergency response techniques. Noting that Nagaland lies in a high seismic zone and remains vulnerable to earthquakes, landslides and other natural disasters, he stressed that community-based preparedness is an absolute necessity.

He said the Community First Responders initiative is creating a network of trained volunteers capable of providing immediate assistance during emergencies, thereby saving lives and reducing the impact of disasters before professional rescue teams arrive.

Such initiatives, he added, strengthen disaster response while fostering a culture of preparedness, resilience and community responsibility.

‘Address emerging challenges arising from natural disasters’
Dr Rio encouraged the Indian Red Cross Society and NSDMA to further expand the programme so that every district, village and community in Nagaland can benefit from trained volunteers who stand ready to serve during times of crisis.

He said the Government of Nagaland deeply values the humanitarian work carried out by the Indian Red Cross Society and acknowledged its role as a dependable partner in promoting public health, disaster risk reduction, emergency response and community welfare. The CM underscored the importance of continued collaboration among government agencies, civil society organisations and humanitarian institutions to address emerging challenges arising from natural disasters, public health emergencies and climate change.

Acknowledging the leadership of the Governor of Nagaland, the Managing Committee, General Secretary, office bearers of district branches, volunteers and members, the Chief Minister commended their dedication in advancing the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross across the State.

Reaffirming the Government's commitment to supporting disaster preparedness, voluntary blood donation, first aid education, youth volunteerism and community resilience, the Chief Minister urged all stakeholders to continue inspiring young people to embrace volunteerism and cultivate a culture of empathy, kindness and social responsibility.

Delivering the introductory address, Dr Johnny K Ruangmei, Joint CEO, NSDMA and Managing Committee Member IRCSN, said that disasters do not distinguish between communities, livelihoods, or economic status.

Referring to the recent massive landslides caused by incessant rainfall in Mon District on 19th July 2026, he said people from different communities came forward to help those affected, showing the true spirit of humanity.

He appreciated the efforts of volunteers, government departments, and various institutions that worked together in relief and rescue operations.

He said the Indian Red Cross Society continues to support the government's efforts in disaster response, healthcare, first aid, emergency preparedness and building community resilience. He also highlighted the importance of volunteer training, especially in search and rescue operations.

Earlier, IRCS Nagaland State Branch general secretary Akhale V Khamo gave the IRCS report while vote of thanks was proposed by Dr R Rose, vice chairman IRCSN.

During the meeting, the Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland State Branch also contributed to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.