Donate blood to build emergency reserves, PGI urges residents
Responding to the escalating tension between India and Pakistan, the PGIMER on Thursday launched a campaign to establish an emergency blood reserve.
Under this initiative, the North India’ premier health institute has called upon the public to come forward and donate blood as a powerful, united act of defiance against terrorism and those who support it.
“Terrorists spill innocent blood to divide us. We will give our blood to save lives and show them that humanity triumphs over hate. That is the strongest message we can send right now,” said Prof Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER. Elaborating on the importance of preparedness, he said, “This blood donation drive is not just about saving lives, it is about asserting that India’s spirit cannot be shattered by acts of terror.”
Prof Lal underscored the importance of proactive readiness, stating, “Preparedness is not panic — it is protection. We must be a step ahead of any crisis in our preparedness to meet it head-on. Having sufficient blood supply is a crucial part of this readiness.”
He said the PGIMER was taking strategic steps to establish a dedicated emergency blood reserve. “This reserve will serve as a vital buffer, ensuring that critical blood supplies are readily available. The success of this initiative hinges on the unwavering support of voluntary donors, whose regular contributions will help maintain and replenish this reserve continuously, the PGIMER head asserted.
Prof Rati Ram Sharma, Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, PGIMER, appealed every segment of the society to come forward for voluntary blood donation. “We are calling upon students, professionals, workers, and volunteers — every citizen — to stand with us. Currently, we especially urge O Group donors to come forward, as O Group blood is the universal donor and can be used efficiently in any emergency situation. Your support now can help us respond swiftly and effectively to any crisis.”
The blood transfusion centre at PGIMER’s Nehru Hospital operates from 9 AM to 8 PM with 24×7 emergency arrangements in place to facilitate urgent donations.
The institute also launched a sustained public awareness campaign, emphasizing, “Donate today, store hope for tomorrow. Let terror know we are united.”
“As our armed forces stand firm on the borders, we stand united in heart and action,” stated Prof Sharma, adding that every donation was a testament to collective refusal to bow to hate and violence. “Our strength lies in our unity and readiness. Let us come together and make our resolve visible — each drop of blood a symbol of hope and resilience,” he added.
Chandigarh