Badri Mishra Marks 50 Years of Service with St. John Ambulance Brigade
Veteran volunteer, first-aid trainer and 163-time blood donor continues to inspire generations of social workers and emergency responders in Odisha
PURI, May 31
Five decades of unwavering commitment to humanitarian service have earned veteran volunteer Badri Mishra a place of distinction in Odisha’s voluntary service movement. As he completes 50 years with the St. John Ambulance Brigade, his remarkable journey reflects a lifetime devoted to first-aid training, blood donation, disaster response and community welfare.
St. John Ambulance, founded in England in 1877 and introduced in India in 1902, has been at the forefront of promoting first-aid awareness and emergency medical assistance. In Odisha, the organisation established its presence in 1942 and has since trained thousands of volunteers in lifesaving skills.
Mishra’s association with the organisation dates back to the 1970s. He was recognised as a Brigade member during the 1976 Rath Yatra in Puri for his exemplary service during the annual pilgrimage, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
Over the years, he has trained countless volunteers in first aid and emergency response, strengthening the state’s capacity to respond to accidents, disasters and medical emergencies. Currently serving as Advisor to the Mission Odisha Ambulance Division in Puri district, he continues to mentor young volunteers and promote community service.
Beyond first-aid training, Mishra has earned admiration for his extraordinary commitment to voluntary blood donation. Having donated blood 163 times, he has inspired numerous individuals to become regular blood donors, contributing significantly to the state’s healthcare support system.
His social initiatives have also encouraged the growth of volunteer networks involved in funeral assistance services and environmental conservation activities. Through his efforts, many young people have embraced the ideals of humanitarian service and social responsibility.
In recognition of his contributions, Odisha Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling recently presented him with a Certificate of Appreciation. The honour acknowledges his decades-long service to society and his role in fostering a culture of volunteerism.
Recently, trained Brigade members from Puri received certificates from the Central Branch of St. John Ambulance in the presence of State Branch Honorary Secretary Nidhi Kumar Rautaray, Joint Secretary Madhusudan Mishra and Divisional Commander Ajaya Pradhan.
Speaking on the occasion, Mishra reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the organisation and announced plans for specialised training programmes aimed at enhancing the skills and preparedness of Brigade members.
As St. John Ambulance continues its mission of service, Badri Mishra’s 50-year journey stands as a powerful reminder that dedication, compassion and selfless service remain the true pillars of a humane society
