Youth Service & Compassion Key to Nation-Building: Odisha Governor

Bhubaneswar, Jan 20: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday underscored the crucial role of youth in nation-building, stating that the future of the country depends on how effectively young people channel their energy toward service, compassion and social responsibility.

Speaking at the State-Level Youth Red Cross (YRC) Study-cum-Training Programme, the Governor said the youth possess immense potential to heal communities, protect the vulnerable and drive meaningful social change.

He described service to society as one of the noblest expressions of human life, noting that it strengthens both the giver and the receiver while shaping character, values and a strong sense of duty. “A nation progresses not only through material development but also through moral strength, social harmony and collective responsibility,” he observed.

Calling upon students to adopt a service-oriented mindset, the Governor urged young citizens to make social service an integral part of their lives.

Highlighting the legacy of the Red Cross, Kambhampati hailed it as a global symbol of humanity, neutrality and voluntary service. He appreciated its vital contributions in India and Odisha, particularly in disaster response, health awareness, first aid, road safety, blood donation and community resilience-building.

The Governor also commended the Odisha State Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) for extending its activities to grassroots levels and remaining at the forefront during cyclones, floods, pandemics and other emergencies, often under challenging conditions.

Describing the Youth Red Cross as the backbone of the movement, he said its volunteers truly embody the spirit of “Service before Self.” He further appreciated YRC initiatives under the Swasth Nari Sashakt Odisha programme aimed at eliminating anaemia among girl students, calling it a significant step toward gender equity, social justice and inclusive development.

Kambhampati lauded the YRC’s sustained efforts in voluntary blood donation, stressing that every unit of blood donated represents a gift of life, hope and compassion.

He said the ongoing training programme equips students with essential life-saving skills in first aid, disaster preparedness, road safety, health awareness and community service, enabling them to respond effectively during emergencies as well as in day-to-day situations.

Such acts of service, he concluded, contribute directly to building a Viksit Odisha and a Viksit Bharat.