Bhubaneswar – Odisha Governor and Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) State Branch President Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati has called for greater youth participation in voluntary blood donation, urging colleges and universities to host donation camps two to three times a year.
Speaking at the IRCS State Branch Executive Committee meeting at Raj Bhavan’s New Abhishek Hall on August 13, Dr. Kambhampati emphasised the life-saving value of blood donation and the importance of dispelling myths that discourage potential donors. He noted that low haemoglobin levels, particularly among women, remain a challenge to donor participation, and called for targeted health interventions.
The Governor also reviewed the state’s preparedness for addressing thalassemia and sickle cell disease, stressing the need to ensure adequate blood supplies for patients. Expressing concern over the rising incidence of vision problems among school children, he urged proactive steps to address such health issues.
The meeting included a presentation on the IRCS Odisha State Branch’s initiatives, highlighting ongoing efforts to promote blood donation and improve healthcare access. Dr. Kambhampati directed officials to maintain transparency by ensuring timely submission of financial reports.
The session saw participation from key ministers, including Nityananda Gond and Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, along with senior government officials and district representatives who joined virtually. Commissioner-cum-Secretary Smt. Roopa Roshan Sahu welcomed participants, while Honorary Secretary Ganesh Chandra Patra presented agenda updates.
The discussion reinforced IRCS’s commitment to fostering a culture of voluntary blood donation in Odisha, with a focus on mobilising students and strengthening public health initiatives across the state.
