India has a population of 138 crore but not even one per cent donate blood: Harshvardhan

New delhi date. 21. Sunday March 2021

Union Health Minister Dr Harshvardhan has expressed concern over the low blood donation in India.

Speaking at a Red Cross Society event, he said that there is a dearth of voluntary blood donors in India. In developed countries, 50 out of every 100 people come forward to donate blood every year but only 8 to 10 out of 1000 people in India wish to donate blood. It is very important to spread awareness for this. The total population of India is 138 crore. Against this, India needs 1.40 crore units of blood every year. However, due to lack of blood donors, this target is not met.

"Even if only 1 per cent of the population donates blood, the need for blood in India can be easily met. It is very important for a large number of people to come forward and donate blood on their own to meet the need for regular blood supply," he said. Educational institutions, industries, social organizations and religious organizations can play a big role in inspiring for this. Voluntary blood donation organizations active in the country have to maintain their number of donors. Giving someone the gift of life is the biggest gift.

Dr. Harshvardhan said that donating blood is as good as pilgrimage. Regular blood donation also benefits health.