Along with the rest of the world, Indian Red Cross Society, Zunheboto Branch observed the World Red Cross Day at Deputy Commissioner's conference hall with the theme 'wear mask to protect yourself and others and stop the spread of COVID-19' on 8th May 2021, adhering to all safety protocols, commemorating the birth anniversary of Jean Henry Dunant.

Delivering the welcome address, Hony Secy, Dr Hokishe Kiho briefed the activities carried out by IRCS Zunheboto branch, like assistance to the returnees from outside the state because of the pandemic, financial assistance to landslides affected families, material assistance while visiting villages effected by natural calamities etc.

Deputy Commissioner and chairman of IRCS, Zunheboto branch Peter Lichamo said that, assistances provided by the Red Cross Societies all over the world is highly acknowledged because of the exemplary contributions the society could provide to the needy at times of crisis and which is why the Red Cross Society is one the premium organizations that is respected and honoured. He added that the district branch should also prepare itself anticipating the worst effects of the pandemic. He appealed the members to always be ready to make themselves available to the needy, which is the main objective of the organisation.

Speaking on the theme of the programme, CMO Zunheboto Dr Akaho Sema mentioned that India is now entering the 3rd stage of the pandemic which means that the virus is everywhere and community spread is now inevitable and unlike earlier stages contact tracing is no more possible, which is resulting in covid positive detection of more than 4 lakhs and 3500 deaths everyday in an average across the country. He expressed regretfully that there are still certain sections of the people who advocate against the only practical solutions like wearing of masks, washing of hands, sanitizing and getting vaccinated. He warned that complacency towards the Virus could result in mass destruction.

Earlier at the programme, Advisor IRCS, Dr Huskha Yepthomi spoke on the inception of the Red Cross Society. While delivering the vote of thanks, former V/chairman Hokugha Sükhalu appealed to IRCS, Zunheboto not to be stagnant and to be more useful in whatever ways possible. The programme was chaired by V/chairman Kashito Yepthomi.

(DPRO, Zunheboto)