Leh Observes World Blood Donor Day with Inauguration of Advanced Blood Component Facility
Leh, 14 June 2024 — In commemoration of World Blood Donor Day, the Health Department Leh, in collaboration with the Khamsde Jabstok Welfare Society, organized a large-scale blood donation camp at SNM Hospital, Leh, under the global theme “Give Blood ,Give Hope: Together We Save Lives.”
The event drew enthusiastic participation from volunteers, healthcare professionals, students, and civil society members, underscoring the region’s collective commitment to saving lives through voluntary blood donation.
Dr. Yangchen Dolma, State Nodal Officer for the Blood Centre and Pathologist, SNM Hospital, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the vital role of regular blood donation in modern healthcare. She emphasized the importance of component separation—red blood cells, platelets, and plasma—and explained that Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) can be preserved safely for up to two years at –80°C, ensuring timely support to patients suffering from COVID-19, dengue, surgical emergencies, and other critical conditions.
A major highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Component Separation Facility at the Blood Centre, SNM Hospital, by Hon’ble Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson. This state-of-the-art facility enables the precise separation of blood into its core components, thereby significantly enhancing the capacity and efficiency of blood transfusion services across Ladakh. On this occasion, the Hon’ble CEC lauded the exceptional contributions of Mr. Manoj Kumar, Drug Inspector (Central Government), and Ms. Nasreen Bano, Assistant Drug Controller, UT Ladakh, for their pivotal roles in upgrading the Blood Centre within a remarkably short timeframe.
In his keynote address, Advocate Tashi Gyalson praised the spirit of altruism demonstrated by blood donors. “There is no artificial substitute for blood. By donating, you’re not just helping patients—you’re saving lives,” he remarked. He further commended the dedication of healthcare workers, volunteers, and organizing partners for their tireless efforts in making the event a success.
Dr. Rinchen Chosdol, Medical Superintendent, SNM Hospital, extended heartfelt thanks to the Hon’ble CEC for his continued leadership and support in advancing healthcare infrastructure. She also expressed deep appreciation for the commitment shown by blood donors, medical staff, and partner organizations, remarking that the day stood as a shining example of teamwork, compassion, and service to humanity. She added that the inauguration of the component facility marked a significant milestone that will greatly improve patient care outcomes and ensure the timely availability of safe and effective blood products for the people of the region.
Further enriching the program, a representative from the Khamsde Jabstok Welfare Society addressed the gathering, debunking myths surrounding blood donation and encouraging more youth to take active roles in such life-saving initiatives. Certificates of appreciation were presented to all participating donors in recognition of their generous contributions.
The event was graced by the presence of several dignitaries and senior health officials, including Ven. Konchok Tsephel, Nominated Councillor, Sangha Community; Director of Health Services, UT Ladakh; Chief Medical Officer Leh; District Health Officer Leh; District Immunisation Officer Leh; Deputy Medical Superintendent Leh; as well as numerous medical officers, doctors, SNM staff, and students.
