By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 3: Governor CH Vijayashankar on Wednesday praised the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Meghalaya State Branch, for its humanitarian work and its role in building a resilient and compassionate society.
Chairing the Society’s AGM at Raj Bhavan, the Governor, who is also the President of IRCS Meghalaya, said being part of a global humanitarian movement rooted in compassion, neutrality and voluntary service is both a privilege and a responsibility.
He highlighted the Red Cross’s major contributions over the past year, including disaster response, first-aid training, blood donation drives, healthcare outreach and awareness programmes in rural and remote areas. He lauded the Society’s swift relief during floods, landslides and other emergencies, noting that lives were saved and supported. He also acknowledged strong partnerships between the Red Cross, state authorities and other agencies.
Raising concerns over growing social and health issues—drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, and diseases such as HIV-AIDS, tuberculosis and cancer—he urged the Red Cross and educational institutions to guide youth toward healthier choices. He also pointed to global challenges like climate change, pandemics and widening inequalities, stressing the increasing relevance of the Red Cross and its need to strengthen innovation, capacity-building and community resilience.
The Governor thanked all volunteers and reaffirmed commitment to the seven principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The AGM reviewed last year’s activities and discussed strategies to further strengthen humanitarian efforts in the State.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, inducted as Vice-President of IRCS Meghalaya, said the Red Cross has long served as a beacon of humanity beyond caste, creed and culture. He commended volunteers for their service during natural calamities and outlined priorities: expanding youth and community programmes, boosting disaster preparedness, strengthening health initiatives, and improving district and subdivision units. He assured full administrative support, noting volunteers are the heart of the organisation. He added that Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Minister Sanbor Shullai have acknowledged and supported Red Cross initiatives.
The meeting was attended by Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai, senior government officials, Red Cross representatives including River O Wahlang, IFS (Retd.), Chairman of IRCS Meghalaya State Branch, Principal Secretary to the Governor, HC Choudhary, and other dignitaries.
