BUDGAM, MAY 08: International Red Cross Day was Friday celebrated at Sheikh-ul-Alam Hall Budgam by District Administration Budgam in collaboration with District Red Cross Society and Chief Medical Officer Budgam.
The day-long programme, as per an official statement, was inaugurated by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Budgam, Vivek Agarwal, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
A blood donation camp was organised during the programme in which scores of voluntary donors participated enthusiastically. Students from various educational institutions also attended the event and were sensitised about the importance of voluntary blood donation and the humanitarian significance of World Red Cross Day.
Speaking on the occasion, ADDC Budgam highlighted the importance of the day and appreciated the role of Red Cross Societies for rendering exemplary services during the COVID-19 pandemic and other natural calamities. He emphasised that service to society and the nation requires a healthy body and urged students to prioritise their physical and mental well-being.
He also spoke about the harmful effects of drug abuse and advised students to stay away from such social evils and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Chief Medical Officer Budgam, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad, along with other speakers, deliberated on the importance of voluntary blood donation and community participation in humanitarian activities.
Notably, a dedicated blood donor Shabir Ahmad Khan who has donated 193 units of blood and Bilqees Ara, who has donated 43 units, shared their experiences and motivated participants to contribute towards saving lives. Various students also deliberated upon the importance and relevance of celebrating World Red Cross Day and highlighted the role of humanitarian values in society.
Among others present on the occasion were ADC Budgam, representatives of SDRF, health officials, volunteers and members of civil society.
