Bhubaneswar: The future of the nation depends on how its youth channel their energy towards service, compassion and social responsibility, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati said Tuesday, while addressing the state-level Youth Red Cross (YRC) studycum-training programme at Rama Devi Women’s University here.
Young people possess immense potential to heal communities, protect the vulnerable and drive meaningful social transformation, he said.
“Service to society is one of the noblest expressions of human life, as it strengthens both the giver and the receiver while shaping values, character and a strong sense of duty,” Kambhampati said.
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A nation, he observed, grows not merely through material progress but through moral strength, social harmony and collective responsibility.
The governor urged students to cultivate a service-oriented mindset and make service an integral part of their lives, both as individuals and as responsible citizens.
Highlighting the role of the Red Cross, the governor described it as a global symbol of humanity, neutrality and voluntary service.
He noted its significant contribution in India and Odisha in disaster response, health awareness, first aid, road safety, blood donation and building community resilience.
He commended the Odisha State Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) for expanding its activities to the grassroots and for remaining at the forefront during cyclones, floods, pandemics and other emergencies, often working in the most challenging conditions.
Describing the Youth Red Cross (YRC) as the backbone of the Red Cross movement, Kambhampati said its volunteers truly embody the spirit of ‘Service before Self’ and appreciated YRC initiatives under the ‘Swasth Nari Sashakt Odisha’ programme aimed at eradicating anaemia among girl students, particularly in aspirational and remote districts, calling it a meaningful step towards gender equity, social justice and inclusive development.
