World Red Cross Day - 8th May: Every year on May 8, people around the world come together to celebrate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. This special day is all about appreciating the important ideas behind the International Red Cross Movement. We use this day to remember Henry Dunant, who started the International Committee of the Red Cross and was the first person to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

The theme designated for World Red Cross  Day in 2024 is "I give with joy, and the joy I give is a reward." This theme promotes the idea of giving with a sense of joy and recognizing that the joy experienced in the act of giving itself is a rewarding outcome. On this day, we remember the beginning of the Red Cross Movement and say thankyou  to 97 million staff, volunteers, and members who help people in need all over the world. Today, it's even more important for different countries to work together and help each other, especially when things go wrong and people need help. The Red Cross Movement believes that everyone has the power to make the world better and  we honor  these millions of volunteers who promise to help others. These volunteers are like heroes, helping in many disasters with things like bandages, stretchers, blood donations and tools for getting better.

On Henry Durant's birthday, let's promise to be kind, just like he wanted. The Red Cross believes in being fair and helping everyone, no matter what. On this special day, let's try to find common ground with people we might not agree with and give peace a chance. Even though it's been a long time since the Red Cross started, we still need to help each other. By celebrating World Red Cross Day, we show that we're committed to helping when people are in trouble. This movement is like a big family with millions of people from all over the world. Itbring us all together, especially when things are tough. It reminds us that we’re connected and that we can make the world a better place if we work together.

It is to unite globally to commemorate a significant occasion dedicated to recognizing the fundamental principles of the International Red Cross Movement. This day holds special meaning as we honor the legacy of Henry Dunant, the visionary behind the establishment of the this philanthropist organization. Embracing an annual theme, this day encourages everyone to contribute positively towards the cause of peace. It serves as a reminder of the humanitarian values that bind us together and urges us all to engage in acts of kindness for the betterment of our world.

Dr. ARVIND NERAL Professor & H.O.D. Department of Pathology, Pt. J.N.M. Medical College Raipur ( C.G.)