Odisha Governor Celebrates Volunteer Spirit at Puri's Rath Yatra Service Camps
Governor's Praise for Volunteer Initiatives
Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, the Governor of Odisha, commended the voluntary service camps established during the Rath Yatra in Puri, highlighting them as a commendable tradition of altruistic public service.
While inaugurating the service camps organized by St. John Ambulance, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and the Indian Red Cross Society in Puri, the Governor remarked that these efforts reflect the essence of national unity, diversity, and compassion.
These camps unite numerous trained volunteers, counselors, and officials from Odisha and beyond to assist the devotees of Mahaprabhu Jagannath.
"These service camps have a rich history during the Rath Yatra. Indeed, serving humanity is akin to serving God," Dr. Kambhampati stated during his address.
He pointed out that this year marks the 35th National Service Camp conducted by St. John Ambulance, while the Bharat Scouts and Guides and the Indian Red Cross Society have been actively involved in providing services during the Rath Yatra for over thirty years.
Applauding the dedication of the volunteers, the Governor emphasized the prompt and professional first aid provided by the St. John Ambulance Brigade, the discipline and civic duty exhibited by the Scouts and Guides, and the humanitarian work of Junior and Youth Red Cross volunteers in aiding the elderly and managing the influx of pilgrims.
He encouraged all volunteers to serve with joy, humility, and compassion, stating, "Let no pilgrim go without assistance. Ensure that every devotee departs with cherished memories and a heart full of gratitude."
Describing it as a divine chance to serve humanity, Dr. Kambhampati wished all volunteers success in their dedicated efforts during the grand Rath Yatra festival.
Notable attendees included Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, Chief Commissioner of Odisha State Bharat Scouts and Guides Kali Prasad Mishra, Honorary Secretary of St. John Ambulance, Odisha, Nidhi Kumar Routray, and Honorary Secretary of the Indian Red Cross Society, Odisha, Ganesh Chandra Patra.