Union Minister Prof. S P Singh Baghel inaugurated the World Blood Donor Day event at RML Hospital
New Delhi, June 14, 2023 – Union Minister of State, Health & Family Welfare, Prof. S P Singh Baghel, inaugurated the World Blood Donor Day event at RML Hospital today, emphasizing the importance of blood donation and encouraging citizens to be part of the noble cause. The event, organized as part of the countrywide Raktdaan Amrit Mahotsav, aimed to raise awareness about the need for regular blood donations and debunk myths associated with blood donation.
The theme for this year’s World Blood Donor Day campaign is ‘Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often.’ It highlights the crucial role individuals can play in supporting patients who require lifelong blood transfusion support.
Addressing the audience, Prof. S P Singh Baghel stated, “Blood donation is a noble cause deeply ingrained in our rich culture and tradition of Seva and Sahyog. I implore and call on all citizens to come forward and donate blood as part of the countrywide Raktdaan Amrit Mahotsav. Donating blood is a significant service to society and mankind, in addition to fulfilling the requirement for the country.”
The minister shed light on the increasing demand for blood transfusions in India, with a requirement arising every 2 seconds. On average, 14.6 million units of blood are needed annually, creating a shortage of 1 million units. Patients suffering from conditions like cancer, sickle cell anemia, and thalassemia require blood frequently. Prof. S P Singh Baghel emphasized, “Despite technological advancements, there remains no alternative to blood, and 1 unit of blood can save as many as three lives.”
Addressing the lack of understanding and awareness surrounding blood donation
The minister stressed the need to demystify myths and encourage people to donate blood. He debunked the misconception that blood donation causes weakness, explaining that the body can quickly recover its blood plasma volume within 24-48 hours, red blood cells in about 3 weeks, and platelets and white blood cells within minutes.
Prof. S P Singh Baghel also highlighted the nationwide blood drive supported by the E-Rakt Kosh portal, a centralized blood bank management information system. The portal acts as a national repository of blood donors, ensuring a robust record and expediting blood availability when needed.
The event concluded with Prof. S P Singh Baghel commending and felicitating the selfless blood donors who have donated blood more than 100 times.
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