Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday urged the youth to cultivate a spirit of service, compassion, and social responsibility, saying that their active participation is crucial in shaping the future of the nation. He made these remarks while inaugurating the State-Level Youth Red Cross Education and Training Camp at Rama Devi Women’s University.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said the younger generation has immense potential to promote welfare, protect the vulnerable, and drive meaningful social change.
“Serving society is one of the highest expressions of human life. It strengthens both the giver and the receiver, while fostering values, character, and a sense of duty,” he said. He added that a nation’s progress is not measured solely by material development but also by moral strength, social harmony, and collective responsibility.
Highlighting the role of the Red Cross, Dr. Kambhampati described it as a global symbol of humanity, neutrality, and voluntary service. He praised its contributions in disaster management, health awareness, primary care, road safety, and blood donation across India and Odisha.
The Governor lauded the Odisha State Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society for its extensive grassroots-level work and appreciated volunteers who actively serve during cyclones, floods, pandemics, and other emergencies.
The Governor emphasised that the Youth Red Cross is the backbone of the movement, with its volunteers exemplifying the spirit of selfless service.
He specifically commended initiatives under the “Swasth Nari, Sashakt Odisha” program, aimed at eliminating anemia among students, particularly in aspirational and remote districts, while promoting gender equality, social justice, and inclusive development.
He also praised the organisation’s continuous efforts in voluntary blood donation, describing each unit of donated blood as a gift of life, hope, and compassion.
Dr. Kambhampati noted that the training camp equips students with life-saving skills in primary care, disaster preparedness, road safety, health awareness, and social service, making them capable in both emergencies and daily life.
“Such service initiatives directly contribute to building a developed Odisha and a developed India,” he added.
The program also featured speeches by Higher Education Director Kali Prasanna Mohapatra and Vice-Chancellor of Rama Devi Women’s University Prof. Chandi Charan Rath. Ganesh Chandra Patra, Honorary Secretary of the Odisha State Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society, delivered the welcome address.
