Use tech to expand services of IRCS: Guv | Mangaluru News

Mangaluru: Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot said the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) should adopt technology by using digital platforms to expand its humanitarian services. He was speaking after inaugurating the new centenary building of the IRCS Dakshina Kannada (DK) unit at the Old DC office premises on Saturday.Suggesting the IRCS extend its services beyond the traditional approach, he insisted that there is a need for the involvement of more young volunteers in community service through the Youth Red Cross and Junior Red Cross units. He called upon IRCS DK members to put in efforts into making the new centenary building serve as a hub for public welfare activities.“Being a symbol of humanity and selfless service, the IRCS has upheld its ideals for decades. It has been standing as a supporting force with its humanitarian services in times of illness and crisis. The only religion before the IRCS is humanity, and it works for the welfare of society, thereby offering happiness to all,” he said.Rapid urbanisation and rising health challenges increase the scope of IRCS services, he said, adding that the organisation has expanded its services to all villages and cities, offering medical care, emergency services, and promoting blood donation. As an international organisation, it has a presence in over 190 countries, he said.IRCS Karnataka has bagged the national award twice for its active involvement in humanitarian services like health initiatives and awareness campaigns.Assembly speaker UT Khader said that the DK unit of the IRCS, which has been offering dedicated service in the district for the past 70 years, has instilled humanitarian values among the young generation. He said the IRCS should continue its effective campaigns by motivating young people to donate blood. “There was a time when people had apprehensions about blood donation. The campaigns of the IRCS instilled confidence among people and made them understand that blood donation is the greatest gift one can give,” he added.Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, lauding the efforts of DK IRCS, said that he will extend his support to avail funds through CSR initiatives and govt schemes to expand the Red Cross Society activities in the district. “The govt may not be able to help everyone directly, but organisations like the IRCS can reach the masses,” 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.