Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav with others during World Blood Donor Day 2026 in Kohima on June 12. (Morung Photo)
Nagaland Governor appeals for regular donations
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 12
Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav today urged upon the youth, civil society organizations, educational institutions and all citizens to come forward and become regular voluntary blood donors.
“Every unit of blood donated is a gift of hope, compassion and life,” he said while addressing World Blood Donor Day 2026 at Capital Convention Centre, Kohima.
The programme was organized by the Kohima District Planning and Development Board in collaboration with the Voluntary Blood Donors Association of Nagaland, with the support of the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society and Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council.
Yadav called upon the people to embrace the spirit of this year's theme and work together to build a healthier, more caring and humane society.
“This year's theme, ‘One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.’, reminds us that a simple act of donating blood can make the difference between life and death for someone in need,” he said.
The global initiative this year emphasizes the importance of building a reliable and sustainable blood supply through regular, voluntary and unpaid blood donations, rather than relying only on emergency collections, he said.
He said that World Blood Donor Day, which was first observed on 14th June 2004 in South Africa, reflects a growing global commitment to saving lives through voluntary blood donation.”
Yadav expressed happiness over the growing movement of voluntary blood donation in Nagaland.
“Our voluntary donors are the foundation of a safe and sustainable blood supply that meets the needs of patients requiring transfusions. Their selfless service deserves our deepest appreciation and continued support,” he said.
“Over the years, I have donated blood 36 times, often coinciding with my birthdays along with fellow party members. I have also pledged to donate my eyes so that even after my lifetime, I may continue to help others, Yadav said.
‘Build a culture of regular blood donation’
MLA & Kohima DPDB chairman Kevipodi Sophie, described voluntary blood donation as a reflection of the values of compassion, selflessness and solidarity.
He said blood donation transcends tribe, religion and social status, reminding people of their shared humanity.
Sophie also called upon students, youth organisations, churches and community groups to become ambassadors of voluntary blood donation and help build a culture of regular blood donation.
Kohima Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem said that today’s programme was organised to honour the selfless individuals whose voluntary blood donations have saved countless lives and brought hope to those in need. Their generosity and commitment to humanity continue to inspire society, he said.
Dr Margaret Yhome, Director, Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council, highlighted the importance of regular, voluntary and unpaid blood donation in ensuring a safe and sustainable blood supply. She said the observance seeks to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products while recognising the invaluable contribution of voluntary blood donors.
VBDAN chairman Ainato Yeptho encouraged citizens to donate blood regularly and highlighted the association’s efforts since its inception in 2011.
The programme also witnessed the felicitation of VBDAN patrons, namely Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem, Joint Secretary, Art & Culture, Atosheli Zhimomi, Nagaland Contractors & Suppliers Union president Pele Khezhie in recognition of their support towards strengthening the blood donation movement in the state. Partners felicitated on the occasion included Imprint, Vertex Construction, ImagiNation, Ete Coffee, NK Square and 8 & 8 Restaurant.
The programme was chaired by District Planning Officer, Kohima, Lezo L Tsukru, while the invocation prayer was pronounced by NBCC Secretary, Social Concerns, Dr Villo Naleo. Vote of thanks was proposed by VBDAN president Burakum Ao. The programme was followed by voluntary blood donation drive.
(With inputs from DIPR)
