Leh Observes ‘World Blood Donor Day’ With Launch Of Advanced Blood Component Facility

The Health Department Leh, in collaboration with Khamsde Jabstok Welfare Society, commemorated World Blood Donor Day by organising a large-scale blood donation camp at SNM Hospital, Leh.

Held under the global theme ‘Give Blood, Give Hope: Together We Save Lives’, the event celebrated the spirit of voluntary blood donation and marked a major milestone in Ladakh’s healthcare system.

Health Department Leh inaugurates Component Separation Facility

Hon’ble Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson, inaugurated a Component Separation Facility at the Blood Centre, SNM Hospital.

The new facility enhances the hospital’s capacity to separate and preserve vital blood components—red blood cells, platelets, and plasma—thereby strengthening transfusion services throughout Ladakh.

CEC Gyalson praised the pivotal contributions of Manoj Kumar, Drug Inspector (Central Government), and Ms Nasreen Bano, Assistant Drug Controller, UT Ladakh, in swiftly upgrading the facility.

Health Department Leh Call for voluntary donation

In his keynote address, Advocate Gyalson emphasised the irreplaceable value of blood, saying, “There is no artificial substitute for blood. Donating blood means saving lives.”

He also acknowledged the dedication of healthcare workers, volunteers, and partner organisations.

Dr Yangchen Dolma, State Nodal Officer and Pathologist at SNM Hospital, delivered the welcome address.

She explained the medical importance of component separation and highlighted that Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) can be safely stored for up to two years at –80°C, making it crucial in emergencies like COVID-19, dengue, and major surgeries.

Recognition of donors and teamwork in healthcare

Dr Rinchen Chosdol thanked the CEC and praised the selfless blood donors.

She described the inauguration as a ‘milestone for improving patient care outcomes’ and a reflection of the region’s dedication to accessible and safe healthcare.

A Khamsde Jabstok speaker urged youth to donate blood and debunked related myths.

All participating donors received certificates of appreciation in recognition of their contributions.

Dignitaries and officials in attendance

The event witnessed the participation of several senior officials and dignitaries, including:

• Ven. Konchok Tsephel, Nominated Councillor (Sangha Community)
• Director of Health Services, UT Ladakh
• Chief Medical Officer, Leh
• District Health Officer and District Immunisation Officer, Leh
• Deputy Medical Superintendent, Leh
• Numerous medical officers, SNM staff, and students

They marked the day as a testament to collaboration and compassion in improving regional healthcare.

Also Read: JIH President Syed Sadatullah Husaini Slams Israeli Strikes On Iran; Labels It ‘Reckless Act of War’