ITANAGAR, Jan 29 - Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (retd) BD Mishra today launched the centenary celebration of Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) by its Arunachal Pradesh State Branch in Dorjee Khandu Convention Centre here.
Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that no calamity comes with prior warning. For disaster mitigation, organisations like Red Cross Society must be strengthened, he said.
The State Government has the responsibility for all emergency management, but participation of non-government organisations becomes force multiplier in an emergency situation, he said.
Sharing his experience as the commander of an Infantry Brigade during the most intense stage of Operation Pawan against the LTTE in Sri Lanka during 1987-88, the Governor said that Red Cross Society immensely contributed in taking care of a large number of migrated people from the war-torn areas in Jaffna Peninsula.
He called upon the Red Cross members to work with a sense of service and dedication. Their activities must be benevolent and spirit driven, he stressed.
The Governor, who is the president of Indian Red Cross Society�s Arunachal Pradesh State Branch, said that the members must be the first responders. He asked the IRCS State Branch to create awareness, train people on first aid and increase the number of its volunteers.
He also urged upon the people, particularly the school students, to commit themselves to be more prepared to mitigate any disaster taking place in their area.
Earlier in his keynote address, Indian Red Cross Society, Arunachal Pradesh Branch secretary and member of IRCS National Managing Body Dr Emi Rumi briefed the house about the State Branch of IRCS. He also highlighted the events to be conducted in the State as part of the centenary celebration.
Health & Family Welfare Secretary P Parthiban, Ramakrishna Mission Hospital Secretary Swami Vishweshananda, NDRF Commandant Dr K L Rongmei and SBI�s Itanagar Regional Manager AK Dutta were present at the launching programme. Members of IRCS and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), volunteers of National Service Scheme (NSS) and students from different schools also attended the event.