In a significant initiative, the Indian Red Cross Committee and St. John Ambulance (India), Haryana State Branch, organised a three-day Brigade Officer Training Camp from February 11 to 13, 2024. The camp, held in the serene surroundings of Mata Mansa Devi in Chandigarh, concluded with a closing ceremony, featuring insights from Dr. Sushma Gupta, emphasizing the pivotal role played by Red Cross Volunteers in disaster management.
Dr. Sushma Gupta highlighted the camp’s purpose, stating it aimed to equip volunteers with the necessary skills for selfless service during disasters. The Brigade Division, formed for this reason, focuses on creating a team proficient in first aid, capable of swiftly transporting injured individuals to hospitals. During her address, Dr. Sushma Gupta appealed to participants to establish Brigade Divisions in their respective districts, ensuring the continuous flow of skilled volunteers to the State Red Cross. She emphasized the importance of extending the Brigade Division’s reach beyond educational institutions, urging its involvement at the village, town, mohalla, and religious institution levels for comprehensive public service.
The Red Cross spirit, according to Dr. Gupta, would be fortified through this approach, aligning with the humanitarian goals of the organization. The Brigade Division’s role was underscored as a commendable step in offering immediate assistance through first aid during various events, celebrations, conferences, and sports competitions.
Camp Director Sanjeev Dhiman deemed the three-day camp highly meaningful, covering topics such as the use of firefighting equipment, structure utilization, and immediate transportation methods for the injured. State First Aid Trainer Chandrapal, along with Anil Kumar, Field Officer, Harish Chandra, Chandramohan Lovely Singh, and other dignitaries, contributed to the success of the camp. The event not only imparted valuable skills to participants but also reinforced the commitment of Red Cross Volunteers to serving humanity in times of need.