A call was made for greater participation in voluntary blood donation during an awareness programme held at Immanuel College, Lengrijan, Dimapur, on October 1, 2026 with emphasis on building a sustained culture of regular blood donation among the youth.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, highlighted that blood is a precious resource that cannot be manufactured and can only be obtained through willing human donors. He said donated blood plays a vital role in saving the lives of patients undergoing surgery, accident victims, mothers during childbirth and persons suffering from serious illnesses.
Chang stressed that emergencies often occur without warning and, therefore, maintaining a stable supply of safe blood is essential. He emphasised the need to move beyond a reactive approach, where people donate only when a relative, friend or acquaintance requires blood, towards a culture of regular voluntary donation.
Addressing the students and faculty of Immanuel College, he said educational institutions have an important role in developing character, civic responsibility and a spirit of service alongside academic learning. He encouraged the students to become ambassadors of voluntary blood donation and help spread awareness in their families and communities.
He also addressed common misconceptions and concerns among young people regarding blood donation, encouraging eligible donors to donate under proper medical supervision. He urged the youth to share accurate information and help dispel unnecessary fears surrounding voluntary blood donation.
Highlighting Nagaland’s strong spirit of fellowship and mutual support, Chang said the same spirit could serve as a foundation for developing a sustained culture of voluntary blood donation. He encouraged the community to transform solidarity into regular and organised action.
Chang appreciated Immanuel College, concerned departments and organisations, healthcare professionals and the Voluntary Blood Donors Association of Nagaland (VBDAN) for their efforts in promoting voluntary blood donation. He further assured continued support from the district administration and line departments towards strengthening blood donation programmes.
Speaking on the occasion, Burakum Ao, President, VBDAN, said blood donation is one of the simplest yet most meaningful ways of serving humanity. He noted that blood cannot be manufactured and can only come from the generosity of fellow human beings. He expressed appreciation to voluntary blood donors for their kindness and commitment and encouraged students to become ambassadors of voluntary blood donation.
He urged the gathering to spread awareness, dispel fear and misconceptions surrounding blood donation and inspire more eligible people to donate regularly. He said collective efforts could help build a stronger culture of voluntary blood donation in Nagaland, where no life is lost simply because blood is unavailable.
The programme also included an awareness session on HIV/AIDS by Temsuyanger Aier, Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant, DSHAA, and an awareness session on voluntary blood donation by Dr. Rongsenmar LKR, Medical Officer, Blood Centre, District Hospital Dimapur. A special number was presented by Chumchanao Ngullie, B.A. 3rd Semester, Immanuel College.
The programme was organised by the Blood Centre, District Hospital Dimapur, and Immanuel College, in collaboration with the Voluntary Blood Donors Association of Nagaland, with support from the Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council.
The programme concluded with an appeal to carry the message of voluntary blood donation beyond the college and into homes, churches, communities and workplaces, strengthening the culture of service and helping save lives. This was followed by Voluntary Blood Donation.
(Tovikali, IA, Dimapur)
