Blood Shelf Life Limited, Regular Donations Needed: Dr. Saha

By  Firstdespatch Desk   May 05, 2025

Agartala, May 5 (FD) Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha underscored the importance of voluntary blood donation across all sections of society while inaugurating a blood donation camp at Pragna Bhavan, Agartala. The event was organized by the Tripura State Blood Transfusion Council.

During his speech, Dr. Saha stressed that citizens should come forward to donate blood not only at camps but also at blood banks throughout the year. Highlighting the state’s achievement of collecting 42,000 units of blood last year, he noted that the goal should be to maintain a minimum supply equivalent to at least 1 percent of the state’s population.

The Chief Minister emphasized that blood is essential for emergencies like road accidents, surgeries, childbirth, and for patients suffering from cancer and thalassemia. Since blood has a limited shelf life, consistent donations are crucial to maintaining the demand-supply balance.

He praised the continuous efforts of government and private organizations that hold blood donation camps, particularly during critical periods such as elections or the COVID-19 pandemic. He also commended the Tripura State Blood Transfusion Council for leading the initiative.

Dr. Saha announced that all district hospitals in Tripura now have blood banks, with more being established at sub-divisional levels. Plans are underway to expand these facilities even further.

The event saw participation from Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director of Family Welfare Dr. Anjan Das, and several Health Department officials. Notably, 78 health staff voluntarily donated blood during the camp, reflecting the growing commitment to this life-saving cause. FD SB