Shillong, May 8: In commemoration of the birth anniversary of the founder of the Red Cross Movement, Henry Dunant, World Red Cross day was today celebrated by the Meghalaya Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society in a function held at Raj Bhavan, Shillong. The Meghalaya Governor Shri. Ganga Prasad, who is also the President of the Meghalaya Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society, graced the function as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Ganga Prasad reminded the gathering about the principles upon which the Red Cross Society was founded. Drawing focus on the theme of the celebration, “Everywhere for Everyone – Smile”, the Governor stated that in spite of having its presence in the State, the Meghalaya Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society still has a long way to go to reach out to every beneficiary in the State. He reiterated the need to spread awareness of the functions of the Indian Red Cross in the remote areas of the state and also to involve all districts of Meghalaya, if the Red Cross is to have a meaningful existence in this State.
Meghalaya Health Minister, Shri A L Hek speaking as the Vice President of the Meghalaya Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society stressed on the need for a strong and vibrant volunteer base and said that schools, colleges and universities could be roped in building such a base. In view of the fact that Meghalaya lies in the zone 5 on the seismic map, he said that well trained volunteers will go a long way in coping with the aftermath, in the eventuality of any disaster.
Chairman of the Meghalaya Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society, Shri. W R Marbanaiang, (Retd. IPS), in his welcome address lauded the heroic acts of Red Cross volunteers all over the world and spoke at length about the need for more volunteers to join the movement. He also highlighted the need to have Red Cross units in every district of the State and also to have a full fledged State Headquarters so as to facilitate the smooth functioning of the Society.
On the occasion, the Governor released the World Red Cross Flag and also distributed Life Time Membership Certificates to 32 out of 76 members. Songs, dances and skits performed by students from various schools added to the celebratory mood of the function.
