Meghalaya govt holds blood donation camp supported by Terumo Blood & Cell Technologies

New Delhi: The Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, announced the launch of a comprehensive behavioural change campaign aimed at increasing voluntary blood donation in Ri-Bhoi District, an Aspirational District in the State.

The campaign was inaugurated by the Health Minister, who unveiled a dedicated number through which citizens of the district can give a “missed call” to register themselves as a voluntary blood donor. The dedicated number is +91 99539 7533.

The campaign’s primary objective is to foster a cultural shift in Ri-Bhoi District, encouraging individuals to embrace voluntary blood donation as a noble act that can save lives. By leveraging technology and employing targeted awareness strategies on the need for and importance of regular blood donation, the Government of Meghalaya and Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies aim to dispel misconceptions, mobilize participation, and empower the local community to save lives through blood donation.

A highlight of the campaign launch was the release of a multi-lingual comic book. Through a relatable story format, this innovative publication aspires to debunk myths surrounding voluntary blood donation and urge the people of Ri-Bhoi to donate blood for the greater good. The comic book aims to engage and educate individuals of all ages, making the message accessible to diverse audiences.

During the release of the comic book and awareness videos, the Health Minister of Meghalaya, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, said, “Behavioral change campaigns have proven to be incredibly effective in driving positive societal transformations. I firmly believe that implementing such a campaign may significantly alter the mindset and behavior of the residents of Ri-Bhoi, encouraging them to engage in regular, voluntary blood donation. This, in turn, may lead to establishing a self-sustaining blood bank ecosystem for the Aspirational District of Ri-Bhoi. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Government of Meghalaya, and Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies for their commendable initiative in spearheading this campaign.”

Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, shared his thoughts: “Access to safe blood plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal functioning of the healthcare system. Regrettably, a significant number of individuals are influenced by misconceptions and false information, leading them to hesitate when it comes to voluntary blood donation. We believe that this behavioural change campaign will profoundly impact Ri-Bhoi district. Through collaboration, awareness, and education, we are confident that the residents will come forward to donate blood, ultimately transforming their communities and ensuring a brighter future for all.”

Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, a global leader in blood management, blood components, therapeutic apheresis, and cellular technologies, through its local entity, Terumo Penpol, is a key partner in this initiative. The company has enlisted the support of local social media influencers who will utilize their platforms to create compelling awareness videos which will target youth and inspire them to embrace their inner superheroes by actively participating in blood donation drives.

Chetan Makam, General Manager and Senior Vice President, Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign. He stated, “We are proud to collaborate with the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, to launch this transformative campaign in Ri-Bhoi District. By harnessing the power of communications, we aim to create a groundswell of support for voluntary blood donation at the grassroots level. Our joint efforts aim to establish a sustainable blood ecosystem in the Aspirational District of Ri-Bhoi. We are confident that with the ongoing support of the Government of Meghalaya, we will successfully achieve our collective vision and build a donation campaign model for other states to leverage.”

In addition to the comic book and social media campaign, the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, will distribute informative pamphlets throughout schools, colleges, and communities in Ri-Bhoi District. These educational materials will play a vital role in informing individuals about the urgent need and paramount importance of blood donation and encouraging them to participate actively in this life-saving endeavor.

The launch event also included the participation of prominent dignitaries, including Health minister, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi District, and the Additional Deputy Commissioner and Director of Health Services (MI) among other notable figures.

A blood donation camp was organized after the successful campaign launch, emphasizing the commitment to the cause. The Government of Meghalaya and Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies urge the residents of Ri-Bhoi District to actively participate in this campaign by registering as voluntary blood donors and embracing the opportunity to save lives.