Mangaluru: The Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion (IHBT), in association with the Yenepoya Medical College Hospital Blood Centre, commemorated World Blood Donor Day 2026 at the EMD Auditorium of Yenepoya Medical College Hospital on June 13.
The programme was organised to honour voluntary blood donors and blood donation camp organisers whose selfless contributions continue to save countless lives. This year’s World Health Organization theme, “One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.”, highlighted the spirit of compassion and solidarity embodied by voluntary blood donors worldwide.
The event was inaugurated in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Satheesh Rao, Member of the Managing Committee of the Indian Red Cross Society (Dakshina Kannada) and Emeritus Professor, Department of Psychiatry, K.S. Hegde Medical Academy.
Guests of Honour included Dr. Habib Rahaman A.A., Medical Superintendent of Yenepoya Medical College Hospital, and Dr. Abhay S. Nirgude, Vice Principal of Yenepoya Medical College. The programme was presided over by Dr. Prakash Robert M. Saldanha, Principal of Yenepoya Medical College.
The event began with an invocation followed by a welcome address by Dr. Indira S. Puthran, Professor and Head of the Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion. A ceremonial lamp-lighting marked the formal inauguration.
Annual report highlights achievements
The Blood Centre Annual Report 2025–26 was presented by Dr. Vidya Rekha R. Kamath, Chief of the YMCH Blood Centre.
The report highlighted the achievements, milestones, blood collection statistics, voluntary blood donation activities, and transfusion services rendered during the year.
As part of the celebrations, voluntary blood donation camp organisers and dedicated Single Donor Platelet (SDP) donors were felicitated for their invaluable contribution towards ensuring the availability of safe blood and blood components for patients in need.
Importance of voluntary blood and organ donation stressed
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Satheesh Rao emphasised the importance of voluntary blood donation as a social responsibility and highlighted the profound impact a single donation can have in saving lives.
He commended the efforts of blood donors, organisers, and healthcare professionals in promoting a culture of regular voluntary blood donation. He also stressed the importance of organ donation and encouraged individuals to pledge their organs to help save lives.
In his address, Dr. Prakash Robert M. Saldanha congratulated all voluntary blood donation camp organisers for their continued support in ensuring an adequate and safe blood supply for patients.
He also announced the commencement of the Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening transfusion medicine services, academic activities, and patient care at the institution.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Gloria Venessa Quadros, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, donors, organisers, volunteers, and participants for making the celebration a success.
The World Blood Donor Day 2026 celebration reaffirmed the Blood Centre’s commitment to promoting safe blood donation practices and recognising the extraordinary contribution of voluntary blood donors who selflessly donate the gift of life.