Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUN 12 (NPN): Calling on youth, educational institutions, civil society organisations and citizens to become regular voluntary blood donors, Governor of Nagaland, Nand Kishore Yadav, said every unit of blood donated was a gift of hope, compassion and life.
Addressing the observance of World Blood Donor Day 2026 at the Capital Convention Centre, Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima, on June 12, Yadav said the theme “One Drop of Humanity: Give Blood, Save Lives” served as a reminder that a simple act of donating blood could mean the difference between life and death for someone in need.
The programme was organised by the Kohima District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) in collaboration with the Voluntary Blood Donors Association Nagaland (VBDAN).
The governor said the global initiative highlighted the importance of building a reliable and sustainable blood supply through regular, voluntary and unpaid blood donations rather than depending solely on emergency collections.
Appreciating the growing voluntary blood donation movement in Nagaland, he said voluntary donors formed the backbone of a safe and sustainable blood supply system that meets the needs of patients requiring transfusions. He added that their selfless service deserved the deepest appreciation and continued support.
Sharing a personal experience, Yadav revealed that he had donated blood 36 times over the years, often on his birthdays along with fellow party members, and had also pledged to donate his eyes.
He urged citizens to embrace the spirit of service and work collectively towards building a healthier, more caring and humane society.
DPDB chairman Kohima, Kevipodi Sophie, MLA, said the occasion was far more than a health awareness campaign and represented the highest values that define humanity—compassion, selflessness and solidarity. He said voluntary blood donation reflects Nagaland’s strong sense of community and collective responsibility and transcends tribe, religion, social status and personal interest.
Sophie expressed gratitude to all voluntary blood donors and those who regularly donate blood across Nagaland. He said blood cannot be manufactured in a laboratory, imported during times of crisis or replaced by any substitute, and therefore blood donation is not merely a medical necessity but also a civic and moral responsibility.
Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, in his welcome address, said the programme was organised to honour selfless individuals whose voluntary blood donations have saved countless lives and brought hope to those in need.
Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council director, Dr. Margaret Yhome, highlighted the importance of regular, voluntary and unpaid blood donation in ensuring a safe and sustainable blood supply. She said the observance aims 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.
During the programme, VBDAN patrons, including Governor Yadav, Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, MLA, DC Kohima B. Henok Buchem, joint secretary Art & Culture, Atosheli Zhimomi, and NCSU president Pele Khezhie, were felicitated for their support in strengthening the blood donation movement in the state. Partners felicitated on the occasion included Imprint, Vertex Construction, Imagi Nation, 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 offered by secretary social concerns NBCC, Dr. Villo Naleo. The vote of thanks was proposed by VBDAN president, Burakum Ao. A voluntary blood donation drive was conducted following the programme.