The Governor of Nagaland & President of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Nagaland State Branch, Nand Kishore Yadav, addressed the “Dinner with a Purpose” programme organised by the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch, at Golden Jubilee Hall, Cathedral, Kohima, on 31st October 2026. He emphasised the importance of strengthening the humanitarian network across Nagaland to ensure timely assistance to people in need, particularly during emergencies and natural disasters.

Highlighting Nagaland’s difficult terrain, scattered habitations and vulnerability to landslides, floods, fires and other emergencies, the Governor stated that effective humanitarian response depends not only on resources but also on preparedness, local presence and the ability to act quickly. He stressed on strengthening the District Red Cross Branches, with an active network of trained volunteers, identification of local vulnerabilities, availability of basic emergency resources and close coordination with district administrations and other agencies, to ensure that people in remote villages have the same opportunity to receive timely humanitarian assistance as those in urban centres.

Describing volunteers as the backbone of the Red Cross movement, the Governor underscored the need for continuous training in First Aid, disaster preparedness, emergency response, blood donation mobilisation and community awareness.

The Governor also called for strengthening the Humanitarian Corpus Fund to ensure sustainable financial support for humanitarian activities. He appealed to Patrons, Vice Patrons, institutions, corporate organisations, philanthropists and well-wishers to contribute generously towards the fund. He further stressed the need to strengthen the Emergency Relief Fund so that immediate assistance, including essential relief materials, First Aid and medical support, can reach affected families without delay during emergencies.

Emphasising the importance of voluntary blood donations and medical camps, the Governor stated that blood cannot be manufactured and can only be obtained through donation. He encouraged the Red Cross to collaborate with hospitals, educational institutions, youth organisations and civil society to promote a strong culture of voluntary blood donation throughout Nagaland.

He further highlighted the importance of stronger partnerships with district administrations, the Health and Family Welfare Department, Disaster Management authorities, hospitals, churches, educational institutions, civil society and youth organisations to establish the Red Cross as a permanent humanitarian presence in communities.

Encouraging greater participation of young people in the Red Cross movement, the Governor stated that nurturing a new generation of trained and committed volunteers would help build a strong humanitarian movement capable of serving the State for generations to come.

He expressed hope that the Red Cross would continue to remain a symbol of service, solidarity and hope for every citizen of Nagaland, working towards a humanitarian movement that is prepared before disaster, responsive during crisis and compassionate at all times.

Chief Minister of Nagaland & Vice President of IRCS Nagaland State Branch, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, in his address, described the initiative as a welcome step and called upon everyone to extend greater support to the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch. He said the occasion provided an opportunity for people to contribute generously towards strengthening the Society and enabling it to continue its humanitarian services.

He appreciated the Minister for Health and Family Welfare & Chairman of IRCS Nagaland State Branch, P. Paiwang Konyak, for encouraging everyone to come forward and support the initiative.

Expressing gratitude for the Society’s journey since its establishment in 1982, he acknowledged its significant contributions towards serving the people of Nagaland. He lauded the IRCSN for its yeoman service and highlighted its consistent presence at the forefront of relief and humanitarian efforts during natural calamities and disasters in the State.

Reflecting on his association with the Society, he stated that the IRCS had been working tirelessly for the welfare of the people. He expressed hope that everyone present would contribute generously towards the cause so that the Society could sustain and further strengthen its humanitarian services across Nagaland.

(PRO Lok Bhavan)