The Red Cross Movement
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the world’s largest humanitarian network, guided by it’s seven Fundamental Principles: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality. Established in 1863 in Geneva, it provides protection and assistance to people affected by disasters and conflicts, regardless of nationality, race, religion, or political beliefs. The Movement comprises the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and 191 National Societies.
Indian Red Cross Society
The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), founded in 1920, is a statutory body constituted under the Act XV of 1920 (IRCS Act) and recognized as a voluntary humanitarian organization in India. Functioning as an auxiliary to the government and armed forces in humanitarian services, it plays a vital role in disaster response, health services, blood donation, and community support across the country. Headquartered in New Delhi, the IRCS operates through its network of state and district branches, delivering aid and relief to vulnerable populations in times of need.
Indian Red Cross Society, Assam State Branch
Assam state branch was established by the British Government at Shillong the then capital of Assam. During British rule even after independence up to 1955 it was under under the control of the Government. After transfer of power the function of IRCS, Assam State Branch to civil Authority under the provision of the IRCS act XV of 1920- Assam State Branch and its District/ Sub District Branches has taken some activities like Nursing training, Maternity & Child welfare, Family Planning, First Aid Training, Disaster Management, Relief & Rehabilitation and Junior/Youth Red Cross etc.
At present Indian Red Cross Society, Assam State Branch has 36 District and sub district branches and more than 5000 active volunteers across the state of Assam. Community based disaster risk reduction interventions, blood donation drives, health and hygiene promotion interventions; relief distributions during natural & man-made disasters, rehabilitation interventions are some of the flagship interventions of IRCS.