Introduction and Role

Following the bifurcation of the Indian Red Cross Society, Punjab and Haryana State Branch into two separate branches on 19-06-1971, a General Meeting of members was held on 04-04-1977 in which it was decided to establish a separate branch for the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The Managing Body elected in the General Meeting adopted rules for the management, control and functioning of the Branch for carrying out the aims and objectives of the Indian Red Cross Society.

The Indian Red Cross Society is an important humanitarian organization working in the fields of health care, disaster relief, public welfare and social service. The Society aims to provide relief, assistance and humanitarian support to people in distress and vulnerable sections of society.

Aims, Objectives and Jurisdiction

The aims and objectives of the Indian Red Cross Society are defined in the First Schedule of the Indian Red Cross Society Act, XV of 1920, as amended from time to time.

1. Assistance to Sick and Wounded Members of Armed Forces

Main Functions

• Providing assistance to sick and wounded members of the Armed Forces in accordance with the Geneva Conventions of 12th August, 1949.
• Acting as a recognized auxiliary to the Armed Forces Medical Services.
• Providing medical and relief assistance during war and emergency situations.

2. Assistance to Demobilized and Injured Soldiers

Main Functions

• Providing support to demobilized, sick and wounded members of the Armed Forces.
• Assistance in rehabilitation and healthcare services.

3. Maternity and Child Welfare

Main Functions

• Promotion of maternal and child healthcare services.
• Organizing programmes related to women and child welfare.
• Conducting vaccination and health awareness programmes.

4. Junior Red Cross and Youth Activities

Main Functions

• Promoting social service and humanitarian values among youth and students.
• Organizing Junior and Youth Red Cross activities.
• Providing training in health, hygiene and first aid.

5. Nursing and Ambulance Services

Main Functions

• Promotion of nursing services and healthcare assistance.
• Providing first aid and ambulance services.
• Arranging emergency medical assistance during crises.

6. Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Assistance

Main Functions

• Providing relief during epidemics, earthquakes, famines, floods and other disasters.
• Supplying relief materials and medical aid to affected persons.
• Extending humanitarian assistance both within India and abroad.

7. Assistance to Hospitals and Health Institutions

Main Functions

• Providing necessary materials, garments and comforts to hospitals and health institutions.
• Assisting patients and supporting healthcare facilities.

8. Promotion of International Peace and Cooperation

Main Functions

• Promoting peace and humanitarian values among nations in accordance with the principles of the International Red Cross Organization.
• Strengthening international cooperation and humanitarian relations.

9. Health Improvement and Disease Prevention

Main Functions

• Organizing programmes for improvement of public health.
• Promoting disease prevention and health awareness.
• Undertaking welfare activities for mitigation of suffering and distress.

10. Allied Sections and Administrative Functions

The Chandigarh Union Territory Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society functions through various allied sections, which operate as constituent units under the supervision of the Secretary.

Allied Sections

• St. John Ambulance Association, Chandigarh Union Territory Centre
• Hospital Welfare Section
• Family Planning Association
• Youth and Junior Red Cross

The Indian Red Cross Society plays a vital role in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, healthcare services and social welfare activities. Through its various programmes and initiatives, it contributes significantly towards relief, rehabilitation and welfare of needy and vulnerable sections of society.