Odisha Governor Calls for Sustained Thalassemia Awareness Drive
Bhubaneswar, Sept. 26 (UDN): Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has called for a sustained, long-term awareness campaign on thalassemia to improve early identification of cases and strengthen public understanding of the blood disorder in the state.
Pic Credit: x.com/DrHariBabuK
The Governor made the observation while chairing the executive committee meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society, Odisha State Branch (IRCS-OSB) at Lok Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Friday.
Highlighting the need for continued public outreach, Kambhampati said a long-term awareness programme could help identify undetected cases, particularly in view of the reported number of people affected by thalassemia in the state.
He also advised the Red Cross to explore Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from corporate organisations to strengthen and expand its various welfare initiatives.
The Governor further directed that the IRCS-OSB executive committee should meet at least three times a year to facilitate regular monitoring, review ongoing programmes and ensure timely follow-up on decisions.
Focus on Elderly Care
Reviewing the organisation’s humanitarian and social welfare activities, Kambhampati appreciated the Red Cross’s initiatives in healthcare and community service.
He suggested specialised training programmes for volunteers involved in elderly care, while advising the organisation to obtain necessary government approvals and explore cooperation with the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
The Governor described the Indian Red Cross Society as an institution dedicated to selfless service and called for further strengthening the Red Cross movement in Odisha through greater participation of young people and volunteers.
He also emphasised expanding services and support for people in need across the state.
Officials Attend Meeting
Senior officials from the Health and Family Welfare, Higher Education, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water departments attended the meeting along with members of the IRCS-OSB executive committee and representatives of other concerned departments.
IRCS-OSB Honorary Secretary Ganesh Chandra Patra presented the organisation’s activity report, outlining its programmes and initiatives undertaken in the state.