Indian Red Cross Society takes a step towards global relief programs under the guidance of Hon’ble President
New Delhi, 17th July 2023 – The President of India and the President of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Smt. Droupadi Murmu, chaired the ceremonial session of the Annual General Meeting of the IRCS. The event, held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre, witnessed the participation of Governors and Lt. Governors from 9 states and Union Territories (UTs), both in-person and virtually. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Chairman of IRCS, was also present to address the delegates.
This physical gathering marked a significant milestone for the IRCS as it convened in person after a gap of six years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 300 delegates from across the country actively participated in the meeting, reflecting the commitment to the humanitarian cause of the Red Cross.
Emphasizing the need for international relief programs
During his address, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the core mission of the Red Cross, which is to serve the needy and vulnerable. He emphasized the necessity for the Indian Red Cross to expand its relief programs beyond national boundaries. By engaging in international humanitarian efforts, the organization can make a more substantial impact and extend its assistance to those in need across the globe.
Ensuring transparency and funding opportunities
Dr. Mandaviya stressed the importance of transparency in the functioning of the Red Cross. To enhance efficiency and accountability, state branches of the IRCS will be required to submit monthly reports in the form of presentations to their respective Governors. This measure aims to disseminate information about the Red Cross’s work and attract more individuals to actively contribute to the organization’s initiatives. Dr. Mandaviya also encouraged the Red Cross to maintain transparency, making it a preferred choice for corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding from the corporate sector.
Recognizing outstanding contributions
As a part of the AGM, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu awarded Red Cross Gold Medals to Dr. LN Ambati Natraj from Telangana and Dr. Goparaju Samaram from Andhra Pradesh. The Odisha State branch received recognition for raising the highest funds, while the Jammu & Kashmir branch received an award for raising the highest funds in proportion to its population for the year 2021-22 among the UT branches. Additionally, the Gujarat State branch and the Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu UT branch were honored with Blood Donation Shields for their remarkable voluntary blood collection efforts. The Gujarat State branch was also presented with a Gold Medal for collecting over 2 lakhs 77 thousand units of blood during the year.
The Annual General Meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society witnessed significant discussions and initiatives aimed at taking the organization to greater heights. Under the leadership of President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and with the guidance of Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the IRCS is set to embark on a journey of expanding relief programs beyond Indian boundaries. The focus on transparency and accountability ensures that the Red Cross remains a trusted and favored choice for donors and volunteers alike.