IRCS J&K conducts series of health, humanitarian services

JAMMU: Indian Red Cross Society J&K, in continuation of its humanitarian services and fostering community health and resilience, conducted a series of activities here today.
In response to the ongoing heat wave affecting the division, IRCS, J&K has flagged off a comprehensive Shabeel Seva initiative aimed at providing relief to students and the general public.
This timely intervention addresses the acute need for potable water, ensuring hydration and preventing heat-related illnesses. Under this initiative, IRCS J&K distributes water at multiple locations including educational institutions, public transportation hubs and public places ensuring maximum reach and impact.
General Secretary IRCS J&K Rohit Khajuria, while emphasizing the importance of this initiative said “Our primary goal is to safeguard the health and well-being of the community, especially during extreme weather conditions. By providing easy access to safe drinking water, we aim to mitigate the adverse effects of the heat wave and support our students and the general public.”
Similarly, a Youth Red Cross- First-Aid Awareness cum Drug De-Addiction Program was organized for the students and staff of Govt. Degree College Akhnoor.
The camp was inaugurated by the College Principal Dr. Romilla Malla Bhat (Prof.) in the presence of Dr. Kavita Nijhon, Medical Officer and Vironica Marwah, Field Officer, IRCS, J&K.
In the first half of the session, the staff and students were apprised about the benefits of the Youth Red Cross. They were informed about different programs and activities which can be organised to inculcate leadership qualities among the students.
Further, the students were briefed about First aid and its usefulness in their daily lives.
Later, the students were also made aware of the dangers of drug abuse, its impact on physical and mental health, and avenues for seeking help for rehabilitation of drug addicts.
In the end, Dr Romilla Malla Bhat, principal thanked the team of Red Cross for organizing such a knowledgeable session. The programme ended on a fruitful note.
Likewise, the Indian Red Cross Society, J&K UT organized an eight-day First-Aid training programme for the Commercial Vehicle drivers and youth of the society. During the 8-day training, the participants were acquainted with the rescue techniques and Disaster Management during Earthquakes, Fires, and Floods.
Emergency technique for handling bleeding patients, Fracture/accident victims, resuscitation of a patient of fainting and Cardiac Arrest was also highlighted. Emphasis was laid on the Management of injuries, fractures, burns, control of bleeding, and practical demonstrations of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Choking. Besides a special lecture on Drug De-addiction was also organized and free eye check-up of the participants was also done.
In a demonstration of community engagement and learning beyond the classroom, students from Mata Vaishno Devi College of Nursing, Katra and Acharya Shri Chander College of Medical Sciences, Batra visited the Indian Red Cross Society, J&K-UT to get an understanding of the humanitarian efforts and core activities that underpin the Red Cross’s mission worldwide.
During their visit, the students were given a comprehensive overview of the Red Cross’s pivotal roles in disaster response, health and safety services, support for vulnerable communities, promotion of international humanitarian law, and community service initiatives. Through an interactive session, the students gained insights into the organization’s commitment to alleviating human suffering in times of emergency and distress.
The awareness was imparted to students by Dr. Kavita Nijhon and Dr. Manpreet Kour Medical Officers, IRCS-J&K. The students also learned about how they can get involved with the Red Cross, whether through volunteering, donating or simply spreading awareness about the organization’s critical work. Further, the students also opted to become members of the Red Cross.
Further, the IRCS organized a 3-day comprehensive Medical Check-up and First-Aid Awareness camp for the employees of different Hotels. The initiative is a part of the society’s ongoing efforts to promote health and wellness among working professionals.
The camp was held at Red Cross Bhawan, Kachi Chawni, Jammu which witnessed enthusiastic participation from the hotel staff. A team of experienced doctors and healthcare professionals from the Indian Red Cross Society conducted health screening including blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, vision checks, HIV, HCV (hepatitis C), HBsAg (hepatitis B) and general health assessments.