World Red Cross Day was observed across Nagaland with walkathons, blood donation camps and appeals for humanity.
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KOHIMA — Commemorating the World Red Cross Day, the Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland (IRCSN) State Branch on Friday organised a walkathon on the theme “Walk for humanity.”
The walkathon was flagged off by B Henok Buchem, Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, and president of IRCS Kohima branch, at the Red Cross Complex, with a prayer offered by Dr. Villo Naleo, secretary, Social Concern, NBCC.
At the culmination programme held at Old NST, Kohima, MLA of 9th Kohima Town AC, Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso addressed the participants and spoke on the importance of humanity and compassion in everyday life.
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The MLA said the world today is facing huge problems, conflicts and suffering, but people now have the means to help those in need and despair.
Recalling the contribution of Henry Dunant, Rhutso said Dunant, while travelling to Italy for business in 1858, witnessed the suffering of more than 40,000 wounded people during the Battle of Solferino and mobilised villagers to help them irrespective of which side they belonged to.
“When it comes to humanity, religion does not come into picture. There is no age bar, no race bar. It is you and me. It is in our heart. We just have to take one step forward with the heart of humanity,” Rhutso said.
Reflecting on the walkathon in Kohima, he said that the event may be the beginning of humanity for many youngsters, while for the Red Cross Society and senior citizens, it is a continuation of humanitarian service that has been carried on for many years.
“The problems are created by human beings and it can be solved by human beings alone, and it is only possible through humanity,” he said.
Rhutso also encouraged people to practise humanity through small everyday gestures.
“Let this walk for humanity not just end here. Let this be the beginning. When you go home, let the walk for humanity continue in your hearts, in your family and community,” he said.
Akhale Khamo, general secretary, IRCSN, delivered the welcome address and read out the message from the secretary general on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2026.
The programme was led by Khyo TCK, convener, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. R Rose Chakhesang, vice-chairman, IRCSN.
The walkathon was participated by IRCSN members, Senior Citizens Association Nagaland (SCAN), members of Nagaland Fitness and Body Building Association, students from schools and colleges and other volunteers.
Celebrations in other districts
Mokokchung: The IRCS Mokokchung district branch celebrated International World Red Cross Day on the theme “United for humanity” at the conference hall of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer on May 8.
According to an update, Deputy Commissioner and chairman of IRCS Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, in his speech on the significance of the day, stated that the day marks the birth anniversary of Jean Henri Dunant, the visionary founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the first recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
Verma said that this year’s theme encourages contribution, dedication, commitment and faith to humanity by an individual and how such a small initiative makes a difference to human civilisation. He said it is a collective movement which cannot be done alone.
Junior Red Cross members from Queen Mary Higher Secondary School and Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School shared their experiences as Junior Red Cross members during the occasion.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Tiasunep, chief medical officer, while the programme was chaired by Alemyanger, IRCS life member. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. SS Akaba Longchar, IRCS honorary secretary.
Chümoukedima: The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Chümoukedima district branch celebrated World Red Cross Day by conducting a voluntary blood donation camp at St. Joseph University, Ikishe Village, in collaboration with the Blood Centre Team, District Hospital Dimapur, headed by Dr. Rongsen Longkumer.
According to an update, the IRCS district branch acknowledged the university authorities, staff and students for coming forward to show their gesture by donating blood for humanity.
The IRCS Chümoukedima team included chairman Vichütuolie Mere, honorary secretary Mhiesitsolie Khate, and MC members Bendangchuba Pongen, Khrietuo Yhoshu and K Naben.
Wokha: World Red Cross Day was observed at the DC’s conference hall with Dr. Khyobenthung Tsopoe, vice president of Mount Tiyi College, Wokha, as the special guest.
According to a DIPR report, Dr. Tsopoe, in his address, highlighted the historical context and purpose of the Red Cross movement. He spoke on its value-driven mission of fostering a caring and healthier society, emphasising the willingness to help and assist even strangers.
Reflecting on the theme, “United in humanity,” he elaborated on the importance of human service and the role of collective compassion in building stronger communities.
Deputy Commissioner K Mhathung Tsanglao underscored the objectives of Red Cross Day and the crucial role of volunteer organisations. He highlighted the contributions of the Red Cross in community health services and addressing social issues, stressing the need for practical approaches to bring change and strengthen society.
Tsanglao reminded the gathering that the Red Cross is not limited to wartime or disaster assistance alone, but extends far beyond, touching everyday lives.
The programme featured a special song presented by Isiah Ability Higher Secondary School, Wokha. A brief report was delivered by secretary of IRCSW, Nzano P Kikon, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Yilobemo Humtsoe.