Red Cross a key ally in fight against drugs: Governor

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today urged Red Cross volunteers and women to unite in combating drug abuse. He emphasised the role of women, particularly female students, as catalysts for change. He likened their potential role to that of Laxmibai, leading a determined fight against the menace.

The Governor was speaking at the inauguration of the district-level Red Cross Fair organised by the District Red Cross Society, Solan, at Nalagarh. “The Red Cross is not just a humanitarian organisation; it can also serve as a powerful force for eradicating social evils, particularly during events like these fairs,” Shukla said.

The Governor highlighted the Red Cross Movement as a symbol of compassion, unity and service, emphasising its significant contributions in Himachal Pradesh. “Whether it’s providing free medicines and medical care to the underprivileged or aiding disaster-affected people, the Red Cross has always stood by the needy in difficult times,” he stated.

Shukla encouraged the public to join the Red Cross to enhance its humanitarian efforts and called on industrialists to contribute generously to its funds. He also directed the district branch to increase its life membership.

On this occasion, the Governor inaugurated the Rs 2-crore Blood Bank Component Separation Unit, established through a collaboration between the Indian Red Cross Society, Himachal Pradesh and an investor.

Shukla also released a book ‘Kainth ke Ped’, authored by Rajot Singh and honoured donors, including Manoj Aggarwal, Shashi Kaushal, Surender Sharma and Chaudhary Harbhajan Singh.

Deputy Commissioner and District Red Cross Society Chairman Manmohan Sharma said the society, which began with just 10 members, now boasts over 850 life members in Solan district.

Later, the Governor participated in the Nasha Nivaran Jan Jagran programme at Radiali Panchayat, Nalagarh. He reiterated his commitment to fighting drug abuse at the grassroots level. “We all are concerned about drug abuse as it threatens the future of the next generation. This fight must begin from every household,” he said.

Shukla emphasised the need for de-addiction centres in the government sector and sought the support of Panchayati Raj Institution representatives and women in the campaign.