Over 330 enrol as civil defence volunteers during drive in Chandigarh

More than 330 civil defence volunteers were registered in the city today. Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria attended the Coffee Table Book launch and enrolment programme of volunteers at Rani Lakshmi Bai Mahila Bhawan in Sector 38.

Marking one year of civil defence volunteerism, the Administrator welcomed the second batch of volunteers. He highlighted the growing contribution of the civil defence volunteers in strengthening disaster preparedness, emergency response and community resilience. The Administrator also felicitated civil defence volunteers during the event.

The Administrator lauded civil defence volunteers for their active role in flood relief, monsoon response, awareness drives, mock drills, sanitation campaigns and major public events, including the Surya Kiran Air Show and Chandigarh International Marathon 2026. He described civil defence volunteers as the “second line of defence” during emergencies.

On the occasion of World Red Cross Day, the Chandigarh Red Cross Society organised a blood donation camp, which was reviewed by the Administrator at Rani Lakshmi Bai Mahila Bhawan. Referring to one year of “Operation Sindoor”, he termed it a symbol of India’s unity, discipline, courage and resilience.

Also present on the occasion were Home Secretary Mandip Singh Brar, DGP Dr Sagar Preet Hooda, Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, SSP Kanwardeep Kaur and civil defence Volunteers.

Governor calls for drug-free society on Red Cross Day

To mark World Red Cross Day, Punjab Governor, UT Administrator and Indian Red Cross Society, Punjab, President Gulab Chand Kataria today called upon citizens to strengthen the spirit of compassion, cooperation and selfless service to build an inclusive society, while presiding over a state-level function organised at Punjab Lok Bhavan here today.

Referring to this year’s theme, “On the side of humanity,” he said the occasion honours volunteers who serve people in distress without discrimination. The Governor highlighted the commendable relief work undertaken by the Punjab Red Cross during devastating floods, including the supply of food, medicines, tents and other essential relief material to the affected families.

Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, the Governor termed it a serious challenge affecting the youth of Punjab. Referring to the “Yudh Nashian Virudh” campaign, he said padyatras organised through the Red Cross in the border districts of Punjab created awareness among youth and local communities.

Citing the example of Bhai Kanhaiya, disciple of Guru Gobind Singh, the Governor said Punjab’s tradition of selfless service and compassion truly reflects the spirit of the Red Cross Movement. — TNS