Blood donors honoured for saving lives in Jowai

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 15, 2025

In observance of World Blood Donor Day on June 14, under the theme “Give Blood, Give Hope: Together We Save Lives”, the Jowai Civil Hospital Blood Bank Centre, Panaliar, honoured individuals who have consistently and selflessly contributed to saving lives through blood donation.

The programme was graced by Additional Superintendent of Police Ishan Gupta, IPS, as the chief guest. In his address, he expressed heartfelt appreciation to all voluntary blood donors, describing them as the backbone of the healthcare system and the driving force behind the growing movement of blood donation.

Reflecting on the importance of timely medical support, Gupta referred to the recent tragic aircraft accident that claimed nearly 260–270 lives and left around 100 people injured and under medical care. He highlighted the immense pressure such incidents place on the healthcare system, especially emergency services. As a gesture of empathy, he invited everyone to observe a brief silence in honour of the victims, to pray for their families, and to wish a speedy recovery to the injured.

He also shared a deeply personal experience from his teenage years, when his sister was diagnosed with cancer. “Her treatment required large volumes of blood, and we struggled to meet the demand,” he recalled. “That experience changed my life and showed me how essential blood donation is and how vital the work of blood banks is in saving lives.”

Guest of honour Kingshok Kamal Bora, Coordinator of the CSR Department at Star Cement, also lauded the voluntary spirit of blood donors. He said such acts form the foundation of a strong healthcare system and reiterated Star Cement’s ongoing commitment to community welfare.

In her presentation, Dr I. Khyriem, Senior Medical & Health Officer in charge of the Jowai Civil Hospital Blood Centre, highlighted the critical role of voluntary blood donation in saving lives and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.

Kylli Mot Lhuid, a member of Sarot-I-Man and a regular blood donor, shared his personal story and encouraged others to come forward and donate.

The programme was chaired by Dr D. Lakiang, Medical Superintendent of Jowai Civil Hospital. Williambor Sumer, Lab Technician, delivered the welcome address, and Memory Lamin, Staff Nurse, proposed the vote of thanks.