The Indian Red Cross is hosting, in co­-operation with the League of Red Cross Societies, the First Asian Regional Red Cross Conference at New Delhi from March 9 to 16, 1977. On this  occasion all the National Red Cross Societies  in Asia are getting together to have a closer look at their plans and programmes towards meeting the ever-increasing needs of the region. The Conference will  be  a distinct landmark in the history of Red Cross Movement in the region. For India and the Indian Red Cross the event is a historic  one.

In view of the importance of the Conference, National Red Cross Societies of other continents which are involved in the humanitarian programmes of the Red Cross, as well as International Humanitarian Organisations, including some of the specialised agencies of the United Nations, would also be represented.  In all about 200 delegates and observers are expected  to  take part.

The Conference will consist of two Seminars-one on 'Pre-Disaster Preparedness' and the other on 'Development'. The former will discuss, among other things, progress made towards establishing Red Cross Programmes which are in readiness to face disasters and explore the possibilities of increasing regional co­-operation in this field. The Seminar on 'Development' will review the existing Red Cross community services and identify priority areas of need with special focus on rural areas. It will also consider as to how the structure and organisation of Red Cross in the region can be strengthened further.

The recommendations of the two Seminars will be studied by the Conference in plenary sessions with a view to formulate practical steps towards the achievement of these goals.

The Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department feels privileged to bring out a postage, stamp  to  mark  this important  occasion.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India