The Red Cross Red Crescent Movement is addressing evolving humanitarian challenges through original, innovative and unusual approaches today. This is made possible by millions of committed volunteers and staff across the globe who tirelessly work to bring smiles to the faces of people in need. This World Red Cross Day, we recognised the contribution of humanitarian workers and remembered those who paid severe costs for their service.

On 8 May, the ICRC Regional Delegation in New Delhi along with its primary partners, the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) and the IFRC, commemorated the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross. Dr R.K. Vats, acting Secretary General, IRCS and Dr Veer Bhushan, acting Joint Secretary, IRCS, along with Bhavesh Sodagar, Organisational Development Coordinator, International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and Jeremy England, Head of ICRC New Delhi Regional Delegation specially recognised the achievement of the IRCS for being the first national society to finalise its Strategy 2030.

“We gather today to rededicate ourselves and we renew our commitment to the objectives set by the IRCS,” said Jeremy England, adding that it is important that we live up to the promise of being an agency which is neutral and impartial.

Talking about the upcoming centenary year of the IRCS, Dr Veer Bhushan said, “The IRCS has completed nearly 100 years. Our role is becoming more diverse and we strongly work with partners to meet the needs of people and communities.”

Dr Vats emphasised the importance of the Red Cross. He said, “No matter how advanced we become, natural disasters and emergencies continue to strike. The first agency that comes to people’s minds is the Red Cross.” Summing up, he further said, “Nothing can substitute voluntary action. We have to live up to our slogan – everywhere for everyone.”

A few snapshots from the event (©ICRC)