Minister Mahato calls for reviewing Red Cross activities

Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare Julie Kumari Mahato has said there should be a review of activities of Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) to make the organisation more vibrant and dynamic.

Addressing a virtual programme organised by the NRCS on the occasion of the World Red Cross Day today, the Minister urged Red Cross volunteers to review whether the institutional basic principles were reflected in their activities. Applauding the role of the Red Cross for the prevention and mitigation of the COVID-19 crisis, she said the services of Red Cross volunteers during several emergencies were commendable. As the Minister said, the government is always ready to further strengthen the organisation. The World Red Cross Day is observed on May 8 each year and the day marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross and Nobel Peace Prize-laureate Henry Dunant.

The theme of this year’s World Red Cross Day is ‘Together we are unstoppable.

On the occasion, Home Secretary Maheshwar Neupane highlighted the need for a separate law for the Red Cross and for operating it in a more transparent way. As he said, the government has realised the need for a separate act relating to the Red Cross and has proceeded for the same.

Social Welfare Council Vice-Chair Dr Padam Khatiwada praised the Red Cross for its humanitarian activities like the mobilisation of volunteers and blood transfusion services during the pandemic.

He pledged his best to ensure the Red Cross law based on the institutional norms and values. On the occasion, an ‘application’ meant for making an online donation for humanitarian acts to be operated by the Society was launched.

Society executive director gave his presentation focused on the organisation’s works execution in the humanitarian service sector. Society general secretary Pitambar Aryal acknowledged the contributions of Red Cross volunteers and employees to have provided relief to the people in every situation and crisis. President Dr Netra Timsina apprised the programme of activities of the Red Cross carried out targeting the prevention and control of pandemic.