IRCS 35th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The ceremonial function of the 35th Annual General Meeting (2021-2022) of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland (IRCSN) was held at Dr. Imkongliba Hall, Raj Bhavan, Kohima on 27th September 2022.

While giving the presidential address, Governor of Nagaland & President, IRCSN Prof. Jagdish Mukhi said that the machinery of the Red Cross Society can function smoothly only when all stakeholders extend their full cooperation and work with dedication, keeping the principles of the Red Cross in mind. He appealed to the Nagas to work hard to help their fellowmen, particularly the weaker section of the society during times of disaster. The Governor further said that the annual membership last year including Patron, Vice-patron, and Life members were 112 members only. In this regard, he said that membership drives should be scaled up as this will strengthen the organization physically and economically. The branches should strive to register youth leaders, teachers, church leaders, doctors, and nurses who can take a proactive role in carrying out the mission of the Red Cross. He urged the Red Cross Society to involve the medical fraternity, particularly doctors and nurses who can become a great asset to the Society, especially in organizing health programs and during emergencies.

Mukhi also said that First Aid and Blood Donation training programmes by the IRCS Nagaland are crucial and these services must be continued with greater interest to help people in times of emergency.

The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) is implementing a national strategic plan to eliminate T.B by 2025, five years ahead of the global SDG target of 2030. Since the challenge of TB requires a multisectoral response to address social determinants like nutritional support, vocational support, more access to diagnostic and treatment services, etc. the community and institutions play a critical role in filling the gaps in addressing the social determinants, thereby contributing to the national goal. He asked the Society to participate in the nutritional support component and contribute to the elimination of TB in the country and urged the Red Cross to play its part in eliminating TB by 2025 as envisaged. He concluded by saying that the emergence of social media must be utilized to our advantage. The setting up of Video Conference facilities at the Red Cross office, Kohima, is encouraging. Information technology and digitalization procedures should be incorporated into society to modernize and enhance its functioning.

Dr. R. Rose Chakhesang while presenting minutes of the 35th Annual General Body Meeting (Business session) which was held on 26th September 2022 mentioned the resolutions which were adopted. Some of the resolutions were: all Deputy Commissioners & Presidents of IRCS district branches were requested to make more initiative and interest in Red Cross activities, district Red Cross units that do not have office or store facilities for example Zunheboto, Mon, Tuensang, etc. the DCs were requested to allot or spare office rooms for the Society needs. Further, the district branches are encouraged to form more JRC/YEC societies. All units are urged to increase the enrollment of Patrons, Vice-Patrons, and life members. The House also decided to write to Deputy Commissioners of the newly created districts to initiate the setting up of Red Cross Societies in their districts. Eleven Patrons and five Vice Patrons were decorated at the function for the year 2022.

The welcome address was presented by Akhale V. Khamo, Managing Committee Member, IRCSN, while John Kath presented the vote of thanks.

(Takum, IA)