Rishikesh – AIIMS Rishikesh marked National Voluntary Blood Donation Day with a special program, concluding a month-long blood donation drive organized by the Department of Transfusion Medicine and Blood Bank.
The fortnight-long campaign, held from September 17 to October 1 on the Government of India’s call, saw AIIMS conduct eight blood donation camps across Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. A total of 431 units of blood were collected with active participation from institutions and volunteers.
During the event, AIIMS honored several blood donors and camp organizers. Rishikesh Municipal Corporation Councillor Rajendra Prem Singh Bisht was felicitated for completing his 150th blood donation, while donor Sushil Chhabra was recognized for achieving his 100th donation. A collective oath to promote blood donation was also administered to staff and participants.
AIIMS Executive Director and CEO, Prof. (Dr.) Meenu Singh, emphasized that “there is no substitute for blood, and healthy donors play a vital role in saving lives.” Dean Prof. Jaya Chaturvedi noted that institute staff and students often step forward to donate during emergencies, while Medical Superintendent Prof. B. Satyashree assured that AIIMS maintains adequate blood reserves for critical situations.
Head of Department Prof. Geeta Negi highlighted the department’s goal of achieving 100% voluntary blood donation, adding that with continuous camps and public participation, this target would soon be realized.
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National Voluntary Blood Donation Day is observed annually on the birth anniversary of Dr. J. G. Jolly, regarded as the father of transfusion medicine in India.
