Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot
Credit: DH Photo
Mangaluru: Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot has urged the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) to broaden its scope of services and adopt digital platforms to keep pace with the modern digital world.
After inaugurating the centenary building of the IRCS Dakshina Kannada unit in Mangaluru, the Governor suggested the trust should extend its efforts beyond traditional relief work. He also emphasised the need to involve more young people through Youth Red Cross and Junior Red Cross units.
He described the Red Cross as a symbol of humanity and selfless service.
“The Red Cross Society has upheld these ideals for decades. It stands as a force during times of illness and crisis. Its history is one of compassion, service, and courageous duty. The only religion the Red Cross follows is humanity — working for the welfare and happiness of all,” he said.
Governor Gehlot at a IRCS event in Mangaluru
Credit: Special arrangement
The Governor noted that the scope of IRCS services has widened with growing urbanisation and rising health challenges. He shared that the trust has expanded from villages to cities in offering medical care, emergency services, and promoting blood donation.
Notably, as an international organisation, it has a presence in over 190 countries.
In his address, he also highlighted that the Karnataka unit of the IRCS has received national awards twice and has been actively involved in community health initiatives and awareness campaigns.
He expressed hope that the new centenary building would serve as a hub for public welfare activities.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka Assembly Speaker, UT Khader, praised the Dakshina Kannada unit of the IRCS for its seven decades of dedicated service in the district.
He said the IRCS is not only about blood donation but also about instilling humanitarian values in students. “Youth should be encouraged to donate blood — it is the greatest gift one can give, and there is no substitute for human blood,” he said.
Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta noted that organisations like the Red Cross help bridge the gap that when the government cannot reach everyone directly.
“I will extend my full support to the IRCS and also use it as a medium to spread awareness about government schemes among the public,” he said.
A digital souvenir titled 'Samarpana' was released on the occasion.
IRCS Karnataka Vice President Bhaskar Rao, IRCS Dakshina Kannada President Dr. Shantharam Shetty, and Mangaluru City South MLA D Vedavyasa Kamath were present at the centenary building inauguration event..