Media Release

Udupi, Mar 28: ‘SAMVEDNA-2,’ an international blood donation awareness campaign, was conducted at Muniyal Institute of Ayurveda Medical Sciences, Manipal, in collaboration with the District Government Hospital, Udupi, and the District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit.

Dr Satish Acharya, district AYUSH officer, District AYUSH Hospital, Udupi, presiding over the event, emphasized the importance of voluntary blood donation and its life-saving impact.

Dr Veena Kumari, chief medical officer, Blood Bank, District Government Hospital, Udupi, addressing the gathering, highlighted that Udupi is leading in blood donation and shared essential guidelines for donation, including the minimum hemoglobin requirement of 12.5 gm% and the eligibility criteria for regular donors up to the age of 65 years. She also stressed that donors should be free from infections, well-rested, and off antibiotics before donating blood. Women can donate blood once every four months, while men can donate every three months.

Dr Aparna Surendra described blood donation as a noble act, referring to ‘Rakta Dana’ as the highest form of donation according to ancient Indian traditions.

Dr Satyanarayana Bhat expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized the importance of Rakta (blood) as a vital dhatu in Ayurveda, even regarded by ancient scholars as the fourth dosha.

Statistics presented during the event revealed that 5 crore people worldwide require blood annually, with 50-60% of the demand met through donations. In India alone, 38,000 blood donations are needed daily, and every two seconds, a person requires blood.

The event witnessed significant participation, resulting in the collection of 145 units of blood, marking a major contribution toward saving lives and promoting the noble cause of blood donation.

The event was coordinated by Dr Navaneeth, associate professor. Dr Ashitha, associate professor compered the event. Dr Reeny Dias, assistant professor welcomed the gathering. Dr Rashmi, assistant professor, Muniyal College of Naturopathy, delivered the vote of thanks.

The event was attended by Vidya College of Nursing, Kaup lecturer M M Kotresh, and chief administrative officer Yogesh Shetty.

SAMVEDNA-2 successfully spread awareness about the lifesaving impact of voluntary blood donation, encouraging individuals to continue supporting this selfless service.