Dr. Rio lauds humanitarian efforts of IRCS

The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Nagaland State branch, held its 38th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 23 at the Conference Hall, Red Cross Complex, Kohima.
Chief Minister of Nagaland Dr. Neiphiu Rio who is also the vice president of the Indian Red Cross Society was the special guest of ceremonial function, applauded the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Nagaland State Branch, for its role as a beacon of hope and voluntary service since its inception in 1982, adding that it has made commendable contributions in providing relief to the vulnerable, promoting health and hygiene, conducting blood donation drives, enhancing disaster response and preparedness, and extending humanitarian assistance even to the most remote corners of Nagaland.
The chief minister also paid his respect to late La. Ganesan, the former governor of Nagaland and president of the Indian Red Cross Society, Nagaland State Branch, who passed away on August 15, 2025, He said Ganesan’s guidance, compassion, and unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes will always be remembered with deep respect and gratitude, adding that under his leadership, the Red Cross family in Nagaland was inspired to uphold its mission with sincerity and dedication.
Dr. Rio also commended the General Secretary, Akhale Vizol Khamo, the managing committee, staff, and volunteers for their tireless efforts in carrying the Society’s humanitarian mission across the state.
Making a special mention of Akhale Vizol Khamo, the Chief Minister said her dedicated leadership has greatly strengthened the Red Cross movement in Nagaland.
“Her exemplary service was rightfully recognized with the National Indian Red Cross Society Award for Women for 2022-23,” Dr. Rio noted.
Rio said that the theme for the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2024, “Keeping Humanity Alive”, is profoundly relevant to the times we live in which is often beset by natural disasters, conflicts, pandemics, and social challenges. He said the Red Cross reminds us that humanity remains our greatest strength through acts of kindness, empathy, and voluntary service that we sustain the very essence of being human.
He also stated that “Keeping Humanity Alive” is not merely a slogan — it is a call to action: to stand with those in need, to comfort those in distress, and to serve without discrimination. Rio highlighted that The Red Cross Movement embodies these timeless ideals and that he was proud that the Nagaland State Branch continues to uphold them with steadfast dedication.
In her address, General Secretary Akhale V. Khamo highlighted the history of the Red Cross, founded in 1863 by Henry Dunant, and its operation under seven fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.
She detailed the IRCS Nagaland State Branch’s active humanitarian services, which include first aid and CPR training in all districts, collaboration with the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), and providing free ambulance services during the Hornbill Festival since 2023.
Khamo expressed gratitude to the government and vice president Dr. Rio for their unwavering support, specifically noting his contribution to the repair of the IRCS building, which was inaugurated in 1997 and had not been repaired until now.
The event featured experience-sharing sessions by chairman of IRCS Peren District Albert and honorary secretary of IRCS Mon District Nyamto Wangsha.
The ceremony began with a lamp lighting and a two-minute silence in tribute to the late president of the IRCS Nagaland State Branch and former governor of Nagaland, La. Ganesan, while Dr. Neizou Khalo, pastor of Kohima Chakhesang Baptist Kehukie, said the invocation.
The program also included a special presentation by Keduolhoukho Kire, the official release of the annual report by the chief minister Neiphiu Rio, a vote of thanks delivered by Kholie Dolf, MC Member of IRCSN, and was hosted by Jonas Yanthan, MC Member of IRCSN, as the master of ceremony.