THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, July 30: Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar chaired a meeting of the State Managing Committee of the Indian Red Cross Society at Raj Bhavan on Wednesday, issuing several key directives to make the organization’s functioning more effective and people-centric.
Call for a Mass Movement on Blood Donation
Emphasizing the need to transform voluntary blood donation into a social movement, the Governor instructed regular organization of blood donation camps with active participation from universities, colleges, NSS, NCC, and scout-guide units.
“Blood donation is a noble act. Everyone should be encouraged to participate,” he said, sharing that he himself had donated blood 15–20 times in his life.
The Governor stressed that there should be no wastage of blood. If excess blood is collected, it must be sent to nearby districts.
He also called for a large-scale awareness campaign to dispel myths around blood donation and directed that individuals who have donated blood 50 times or more be honored.
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Ensure Transparency and End Malpractices
Expressing concern over reports of blood being sold at some places, Governor Gangwar warned that if any patient dies due to unavailability of blood, the failure would not only lie with the hospital but also with Red Cross officials.
He issued strict instructions to ensure no patient or family is forced to buy blood and said the society should establish itself as a reliable and dedicated platform for blood donation.
He also cited the example of Bharat Ratna Nanaji Deshmukh’s body donation as an inspiration for humanitarian service and urged Red Cross members to work with dedication and compassion.
Expand Reach to Rural and Tribal Areas
The Governor underlined the importance of strengthening district units, extending services to rural and tribal regions, and ensuring financial transparency and accountability in all operations.
He stressed the need for regular disaster management, first-aid, and health emergency training programs to keep volunteers ready for any situation.
He called for a continuous membership drive to keep the organization vibrant and noted that institutions would readily come forward with grants and assistance if the Red Cross consistently delivers impactful work.
The Governor also directed all district units to prepare annual reports and suggested that Red Cross branches could take up the responsibility of performing the last rites of unclaimed bodies as part of their social duty.
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“Service Must Be Our Commitment”
Governor Gangwar said that if every member of the Red Cross works with integrity and commitment to humanitarian service, the organization could evolve into a mass movement.
“Service should be our pledge; that should define the identity of Red Cross,” he said, assuring full support for initiatives aimed at strengthening its service mission.
The meeting was attended by Governor’s Additional Chief Secretary and Society Vice-President Dr. Nitin Kulkarni, State Project Director Shashi Ranjan, Sports Director Shekhar Jamuar, along with office bearers of the state branch and representatives of district units.
