Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh was part of the National Voluntary Blood Donation Day programme that was commemorated at Nazareth Hospital here today.
While remembering the freedom fighter and Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary, the speakers lauded the contributions of this great leader to the nation.
Speaking on the subject of blood donation, Lyngdoh said that communities have to come forward with an open mind to inculcate the practice of regular blood donation.
Myths and misconceptions in relation to blood donation continue to challenge blood donation in Meghalaya. Most blood donation is done through replacement by friends and relatives when someone they know requires blood, or for monetary exchange, which Lyngdoh said is a “bad practice”.
The minister appealed to citizens in the state to come forward in this critical mission across Meghalaya.
The programme lauded and recognised the contribution made by all concerned and over 45 blood donation organisations across East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi were felicitated. The gathering also took a pledge to a committed and dedicated responsibility for the popularisation of blood donation.
Meanwhile, in Jowai, the blood bank at Jowai Civil Hospital felicitated volunteer blood donors.
Dr P Shylla, the official in charge of the blood bank, expressed her gratitude towards the blood donors for their generous support and service to the blood bank.
Jowai Daloi Puramon Kynjing, who was also present, emphasised the importance of timely access to blood, highlighting that even if someone has an abundance of money, it becomes useless without the availability of blood.
Later, the youths from the Presbyterian church and Sookpoh Khadar Wyrnai donated blood.
